Castle
/ˈkæsəl/
Definitions
A large fortified building, especially one built in the medieval period.
/ˈkæsəl/
A large building, typically a fortified residence of a king, prince, or noble.
The castle stood proudly on the hill.
💡 Simply: Imagine a giant, super strong house, with big walls and towers, where a king or queen might live. That's a castle!
👶 For kids: A big, strong house for a king or queen!
More Examples
They toured the ancient castle ruins.
How It's Used
"Medieval castles were often built on strategic hilltops."
"The princess lived in a magnificent castle by the sea."
Idioms & expressions
build castles in the air
To make unrealistic plans or daydreams.
"Don't build castles in the air; focus on achieving realistic goals."
From Old French *castel, from Vulgar Latin *castellum, diminutive of Latin castrum "fortified place, camp". Ultimately related to the Proto-Indo-European root *kau-, meaning "to build or construct."
The word 'castle' has been used in English since the 11th century, reflecting the importance of fortified structures in medieval society.
Memory tip
Think of a 'cast' of characters living in a strong 'le' building.
Word Origin
"fortified place"