Dungeon Meaning and Definition
Dungeon
Pronunciation
/ˈdʌŋən/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A place, often underground or hidden, used for imprisonment, confinement, or concealment, such as a dark, gloomy, and isolated space.
Etymology
The word ‘Dungeon’ originates from the Latin word ‘damnatio’, meaning ‘condemnation’, which was later adapted into the Old French word ‘donjon’, referring to a strong tower or fortress, and eventually the English word ‘Dungeon’, which has a more general meaning of a place of confinement or imprisonment.
Usage Notes
When using the word ‘Dungeon’, it is often associated with dark, eerie, or foreboding environments, such as a medieval castle or a dark cave. It can be used in various contexts to describe a place where someone or something is imprisoned, hidden, or confined.
Cultural References
Dungeons have appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and video games. Notable examples include J.R.R. Tolkien’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’, where the character Frodo is imprisoned in the Dark Tower of Cirith Ungol, and Disney’s ‘Tangled’, where Rapunzel is confined to a tower, often referred to as a ‘dungeon’.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- `In a dungeon’ – a phrase used to describe a dark, confined, or isolated space
- `Like a dungeon’ – a phrase used to describe something as dark, gloomy, or isolated
Related Words or Phrases
- Pit
- Tomb
- Cell
Collocations
- Dungeon deep
- Dungeon dark
- Dungeon cold
Frequency of Use
The word ‘Dungeon’ is not commonly used in everyday language, but it does appear in various contexts, including literature, film, and video games, often to create a sense of foreboding or confinement.
Common Misspellings
- Gerbura
- Dunjon