Catacombs

Pronunciation: /ˈkætəˌkoʊmz/

Definitions of catacombs

noun underground cemetery consisting of tunnels and rooms with recesses for graves

Example Sentences

A1 The catacombs were dark and spooky.

A2 Exploring the catacombs was a thrilling experience.

B1 Tour guides led visitors through the ancient catacombs.

B2 The catacombs were filled with the remains of long-deceased individuals.

C1 Historians believe the catacombs were used for burial rituals in ancient times.

C2 The intricate design of the catacombs revealed the skill of the architects who built them.

Examples of catacombs in a Sentence

formal The catacombs beneath the city hold centuries worth of history and burial sites.

informal Let's explore the catacombs this weekend, it'll be an adventure!

slang I heard there's a secret party happening in the catacombs tonight.

figurative His mind was like a maze of catacombs, filled with hidden memories and thoughts.

Grammatical Forms of catacombs

• plural: catacombs
• comparative: more catacombs
• superlative: most catacombs
• present tense: catacombs
• future tense: will catacombs
• perfect tense: have catacombs
• continuous tense: is catacombs
• singular: catacomb
• positive degree: catacombs
• infinitive: to catacomb
• gerund: catacombing
• participle: catacombed

Origin and Evolution of catacombs

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'catacombs' originated from the Latin word 'catacumbas' which referred to the underground burial places near Rome where Christians were buried.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the term 'catacombs' has come to be used more broadly to refer to any underground cemetery or series of tunnels used for burial purposes, not just those near Rome. It has also taken on a more general meaning of any underground passageways or tunnels, regardless of their use for burial.