Castle

Definition

Castle is a noun that refers to a large fortified building or group of buildings, typically dating back to the medieval period, used as a defensive residence for nobility or royalty. As a verb, it refers to a special chess move involving the king and rook.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkæsəl/
• Respelling: KAS-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːsəl/
• Respelling: KAH-suhl

Etymology

The word "castle" originates from the Latin "castellum," meaning "fort" or "stronghold," which is a diminutive of "castrum," meaning "fortified place." It entered Middle English from Old Norman French "castel" in the 11th century.

Derivatives

• Castellan (noun)
• Castlelike (adjective)
• Castling (verb, in chess)
• Castleward (noun)
• Castlery (noun)

Synonyms

• Fortress
• Stronghold
• Keep

Antonyms

• Hut
• Cabin
• Cottage

Usage

The term "castle" is widely used to refer to medieval fortifications as well as in the game of chess to describe a move involving the king and rook. For example, "The king resided in a grand castle," or "He decided to castle in order to protect his king."

Related Terms

• Fortification: A defensive structure or building.
• Moat: A deep, wide ditch surrounding a castle, often filled with water.
• Drawbridge: A movable bridge leading to the entrance of a castle.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large fortified building or group of buildings: Refers to a medieval stronghold or residence, typically for royalty or nobility.
  • Example: "The ancient castle stood tall on the hilltop."

Verb (Chess)

• To make a special move involving the king and rook: In chess, to move the king two squares toward a rook and the rook to the square next to the king.
  • Example: "He decided to castle to protect his king from attack."