tumulus etymology

Etymology and Origin:

The word "tumulus" comes from the Latin word tumulus, which means "an earth mound" or "a burial mound." It is derived from the verb tumere, meaning "to swell" or "to rise up."

Meaning:

A tumulus is an artificial mound of earth or stones, typically constructed over a burial chamber or as a commemorative monument. It is a common type of burial structure found in various cultures and historical periods worldwide.

Uses:

Tumuli have served various purposes throughout history:

  • Burial Mounds: To house the remains of deceased individuals, providing protection and a sacred space for the departed.
  • Commemorative Monuments: To honor important figures or events, such as the Battle of Marathon or the burial of a legendary king.
  • Territorial Markers: To demarcate boundaries or claim a particular territory.
  • Religious Sites: As places of worship or ritual practices.

Forms and Structures:

Tumuli vary in size and shape, depending on their purpose and the culture that built them. Common forms include:

  • Bell-shaped: A rounded mound with a narrow base.
  • Conical: A cone-shaped mound with a circular base.
  • Long Barrow: A long, narrow mound with parallel sides.
  • Chambered: A mound containing a burial chamber, accessible through an entrance or passage.

tumulus relate terms

  • tomb

    Tomb Etymology The word tomb originates from the Greek word τύμβος túmbos w

  • lamb

    Etymology The word lamb comes from the Old English word lamb which is derived from t

  • tumulous

    Tumultuous an adjective of Latin origin means full of commotion or uproar or marked b

  • tumulus

    Etymology and Origin The word tumulus comes from the Latin word tumulus which means

  • barrow

    Etymology Middle English barewe from Old English beorg bearuwe a tumulus a mound

  • hill

    Etymology Hill is derived from Old English hyll or hill which is cognate with Old Sa

  • mound

    Etymology The word mound comes from the Old English word mund meaning mountain or

  • burial

    Etymology The word burial comes from the Old English word byrian which means to hi

  • grave

    Etymology The word grave has its roots in the Latin word gravis which means heavy

  • miasma

    Etymology Ancient Greek μίασμα miasma meaning pollution defilement or

  • tacit

    Etymology From Latin tacitus meaning silent unspoken implied Meaning Tacit re

  • caterpillar

    Etymology The word caterpillar has its origins in Old French where it was known as ch

  • thank

    Etymology Origin Old English þancian from Proto Germanic þankōną from Proto In

  • folk

    Meaning of Folk Etymology Folk etymology also known as popular etymology or dubious e