Castles were integral to medieval society, offering protection during conflicts and serving as administrative centers. The architectural styles of castles vary widely across cultures, from the towering stone keeps of Europe to the wooden fortresses of Japan. Modern reconstructions and historical sites attract millions of visitors annually, serving as reminders of the rich heritage they embody. In chess, the castle, or rook, symbolizes stability and defense, playing a vital role in strategies to safeguard the king. The enduring legacy of castles continues to inspire literature, film, and architecture worldwide.
castle in English
- castle⇄adj. castlelike.
- castle⇄castle, noun, verb, -tled,-tling.
- castle⇄noun 1a. a large building or group of buildings with thick walls, turrets, battlements, and other defenses against attack.
Ex. The knight rode over the drawbridge into the castle.
b. a palace that once had defenses against attack.
c. - castle⇄v.i. in chess:
a. to move the king from his own square two squares toward either corner and bring the rook from that corner to the square the king has passed over.
b. (of the king) to be thus moved. - castle⇄v.t. 1. to place in or as if in a castle.
Ex. Some fierce tribe, castled on the mountain peak (Robert Browning).
2. to move (the king) beyond the castle or rook in chess.
castle in Sindhi سنڌي
Castle
Part of Speech
Noun
Pronunciation
/ˈkæs.l̩/ (American English), /ˈkɑː.səl/ (British English)
Definitions
- A large building, typically of the medieval period, fortified against attack with thick walls, battlements, and towers.
- A piece in the game of chess, also called a rook, that moves horizontally or vertically across the board.
Usage Examples
- The king retreated to his castle during the siege.
- In chess, the castle plays a key role in defending the king.
Etymology
From the Latin word "castellum," meaning "fortified village," derived from "castrum," meaning "fort." The term entered Old English as "castel" via Old French during the Norman conquest.
Synonyms
Fortress, Stronghold, Citadel, Palace
Antonyms
Hut, Cottage, Shack
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | Castillo | kasˈti.ʎo |
| French | Château | ʃɑ.to |
| German | Burg | bʊʁk |
| Chinese | 城堡 | chéng bǎo |
| Hindi | किला | ki-la |
| Marathi | किल्ला | kil-la |
| Gujarati | કિલ્લો | kil-lo |
| Tamil | கோட்டை | koṭṭai |
| Telugu | కోట | ko-ta |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
In American English, the "t" in "castle" is often silent, while in British English, the "a" is pronounced with a broader tone. The word "castle" has slight tonal differences depending on dialects within these regions.
Historical Usage
Castles were first built in the early medieval period as fortified homes for nobility. They served both as military strongholds and symbols of power. Over time, the design of castles evolved to include more aesthetic elements while retaining their defensive purpose.
Cultural Nuances
In European cultures, castles are often associated with medieval royalty and chivalry. In chess, the castle symbolizes strategy and defense. In modern times, the term "castle" is also used metaphorically to describe a person's home as a place of security and refuge.