obelisk — a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape at the top
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape at the top
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɑːbəlɪsk/
Example Sentences
- The tourist tried to take a selfie with the obelisk but could only fit his nose in the frame.
- The Washington Monument is America's most famous obelisk.
- My cat thinks the obelisk in the park is the world's most expensive scratching post.
obelisk
NOUN[/ˈɑːbəlɪsk/]
a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape at the top
Tall tapered pyramid-topped monument
The disk warns of risk near the obelisk!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Ancient Greek 'obeliskos', meaning 'small spit' or 'pointed rod'. Greeks borrowed this term to describe the massive Egyptian stone monuments they encountered, perceiving them as giant skewers due to their tapered, needle-like shape.
Breakdown
obeliskos (small spit, pointed rod) → obelisk. The Greek diminutive suffix -iskos (small) is applied to obelos (spit or pointed object), creating a literal reference to the word's iconic form.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The tourist tried to take a selfie with the obelisk but could only fit his nose in the frame.”
“The Washington Monument is America's most famous obelisk.”
“My cat thinks the obelisk in the park is the world's most expensive scratching post.”
“Many obelisks were transported from Egypt to cities around the world.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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