Citadel
/ˈsɪtədɛl/
Definitions
A fortress, usually within or near a city, providing a strong defensive position.
/ˈsɪtədɛl/
A fortress, typically one that is a prominent feature of a city.
The citadel stood proudly atop the hill.
💡 Simply: A citadel is like a super strong castle, often inside a bigger city, built to protect people from attack. Think of it as a really important and secure place within a city.
👶 For kids: It's a big, strong castle to keep people safe!
More Examples
The besieged city's last hope lay within the impenetrable citadel.
How It's Used
"The ancient citadel commanded a breathtaking view of the valley."
"The army retreated to the citadel for protection."
From Old French *citedel, from Latin *citātella, diminutive of *citās 'city'. Originally referring to a small fortified town, it evolved to denote a strong central fortress within a larger settlement.
The term has been used consistently since the Middle Ages to denote strong fortifications within cities, its usage often tied to descriptions of sieges and military strategy.
Memory tip
Imagine a 'city' (cit) that is also a 'tell' (a mound or hill, often where fortresses are built).
Word Origin
"'city' (citās) + diminutive suffix '-ella'"