Bunker Meaning and Definition
Bunker
Pronunciation
/ˈbʌŋkər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A bunker is a fortified underground shelter or structure, often used for military or defensive purposes, or a sand-filled depression on a golf course.
Examples
1. “The soldiers took cover in the bunker during the artillery attack.”
2. “The golfer’s ball landed in the bunker, requiring a tricky shot to escape.”
Synonyms
1. Shelter
2. Fortification
Antonyms
1. Exposed position
2. Vulnerable location
Additional Information
Bunkers have been used throughout history for various purposes, including military defense, civil defense, and even as a means of protection from natural disasters. In golf, bunkers are a common hazard on courses, requiring players to navigate challenging shots to escape. The term “bunker” can also be used metaphorically to describe a place of safety or refuge.
In modern times, bunkers have been used in various contexts, including as emergency shelters, fallout shelters, and even as luxury underground homes. The design and construction of bunkers have evolved over time, with modern bunkers often featuring advanced security systems, life support systems, and communication equipment.
The concept of bunkers has also been explored in popular culture, with numerous films, books, and video games featuring underground bunkers as key settings or plot points. These depictions often highlight the psychological and social implications of living in a bunker, as well as the challenges of surviving in a confined and isolated environment.
Etymology
The word “bunker” originated in the 15th century, derived from the Old English word “bun” meaning “storehouse” or “repository”. Over time, the term evolved to refer to a fortified underground shelter or structure.
Usage Notes
The term “bunker” can be used in various contexts, including military, golf, and everyday conversation. When referring to a military bunker, it is often used to describe a fortified underground shelter or structure. In golf, a bunker refers to a sand-filled depression on the course. In everyday conversation, the term can be used metaphorically to describe a place of safety or refuge.
Cultural References
Bunkers have been featured in numerous films, books, and video games, including the popular video game series “Fallout” and the film “The Bunker” (2001). These depictions often highlight the psychological and social implications of living in a bunker, as well as the challenges of surviving in a confined and isolated environment.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Bunker down” – to prepare for a difficult or challenging situation
2. “In a bunker” – in a state of isolation or confinement
Collocations
1. “Bunker mentality” – a mindset of isolation or confinement
2. “Bunker down” – to prepare for a difficult or challenging situation
Frequency of Use
The term “bunker” is moderately common in modern language, with a frequency of use of around 0.5 per million words.
Common Misspellings
1. “Bunkor”
2. “Bunkir”