Etymology:
The word "dungeon" originates from the Middle French "donjon," which in turn comes from the Latin "domus" meaning "house."
Meaning and Origin:
A dungeon is a fortified tower or keep that serves primarily as a secure prison or a place of confinement. Its historical origins can be traced back to the medieval period, particularly in Europe.
During medieval times, castles and fortresses often had a tall, central tower known as a donjon. This tower typically had thick walls and provided a secure retreat for the lord and his family in case of attack. Over time, the word "donjon" became associated specifically with the lower, underground levels of these towers, which were often used as prisons.
These dungeon levels were typically dark, cold, and damp, with minimal lighting and ventilation. Prisoners were often chained to walls or kept in small, cramped cells. Dungeons were notorious for their harsh conditions and were feared as places of prolonged solitary confinement and punishment.
The concept of a dungeon as a place of confinement and torture has been perpetuated through literature and popular culture. Dungeons are often depicted as subterranean labyrinths filled with horrors and supernatural creatures, adding to their sinister reputation.
Etymology The word donjon comes from the Old French word donjon which in turn derive
Etymology The word dungeon originates from the Middle French donjon which in turn c
Etymology The word danger comes from the Old French word danger which is derived fro
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Etymology The word dungeon originates from the Middle French donjon which in turn c
Etymology of Condominium Latin Con together or jointly Dominium owner
Etymology The word dame comes from Middle English dame which in turn comes from Old
Etymology The word damsel originated from Old French damoisele which in turn came fr
Etymology The word danger comes from the Old French word danger which is derived fro
Etymology The word dangerous comes from the Old French dangereus or dangeros whic
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Etymology Latin dominium lordship dominion Proto Indo European dem to tame s
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Etymology The word dungeon originates from the Middle French donjon which in turn c
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Etymology and Origin The word timber comes from the Old English word timber which i
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Etymology The word prison comes from the Old French word prison which in turn comes
Etymology The word lock comes from the Old English word loc meaning a closed place
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Etymology Old English sibling Derived from Proto Germanic siblingaz a derivative of
Etymology French curmudgeon 15th century Middle French cormillon 13th century
