Hypocaust

Pronunciation: /ˈhaɪ.pəˌkɔst/

Definitions of hypocaust

noun a type of ancient Roman central heating system using hot air to heat the floors and walls of a building

Example Sentences

A1 The hypocaust was used in ancient Roman buildings to heat the floors.

A2 Visitors to the museum were amazed by the intricate system of the hypocaust in the ruins.

B1 The hypocaust was an innovative heating system used in Roman bathhouses and villas.

B2 Archaeologists discovered remnants of a hypocaust under the ancient city, revealing advanced engineering techniques.

C1 The hypocaust system was a testament to the ingenuity of Roman engineering and architecture.

C2 Historians study the design and function of the hypocaust to gain insights into ancient Roman civilization.

Examples of hypocaust in a Sentence

formal The hypocaust system was used in ancient Roman buildings to provide heating.

informal They had a hypocaust in their villa to keep it warm during the winter.

slang I wish my house had a hypocaust, it's freezing in here!

figurative The hypocaust of support from his friends kept him warm during tough times.

Grammatical Forms of hypocaust

• plural: hypocausts
• comparative: more hypocaust
• superlative: most hypocaust
• present tense: hypocaust
• future tense: will hypocaust
• perfect tense: has hypocausted
• continuous tense: is hypocausting
• singular: hypocaust
• positive degree: hypocaust
• infinitive: to hypocaust
• gerund: hypocausting
• participle: hypocausted

Origin and Evolution of hypocaust

First Known Use: 0001 year

Language of Origin: Ancient Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'hypocaust' is derived from the Ancient Greek words 'hypo' meaning 'under' and 'kaiein' meaning 'to burn'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a type of heating system used in ancient Roman buildings where hot air circulated under the floors, the word 'hypocaust' has evolved to also refer to any subterranean heating system or a type of furnace used for heating.