How Do You Spell CATACOMB?

Pronunciation: [kˈatɐkˌə͡ʊm] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "catacomb" can be confusing since it contains several silent letters. The correct IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈkætəkəʊm/. The "c" is pronounced as /k/ and the following "a" is pronounced as /æ/. The second "t" is also pronounced, but the "o" and "b" are silent. The final "e" is pronounced as /ɪ/ and the "c" is a soft /s/ sound, not /k/. Despite its tricky spelling, "catacomb" refers to an underground cemetery or burial place.

CATACOMB Meaning and Definition

1. A catacomb refers to an underground burial chamber or a network of tunnels used for burying the dead. This term typically relates to ancient, pre-Christian, or early Christian burial places, especially those found in Rome and other catacomb-rich areas. The word "catacomb" originated from the Latin word "catacumbas," which is derived from the Greek term "kata," meaning "alongside," and "kumbas," which means "a hollow." This etymology signifies the close proximity of these burial chambers to each other, forming intricate underground systems.

   Catacombs often consist of narrow passageways and corridors, lined with niches or small chambers where bodies were laid to rest. These chambers were commonly dug out of soft rock or soil, offering a secure and secluded location for burials. Catacombs not only served as burial sites but also provided spaces for religious ceremonies, such as the early Christian communities' worship and commemoration practices.

   The architectural features of catacombs include frescoes and inscriptions that adorn the walls, often depicting religious motifs, biblical scenes, or symbols related to the deceased. Due to their historical and cultural significance, catacombs hold considerable archaeological value and provide insights into ancient burial customs, religious practices, and social structures.

   Currently, "catacomb" is also used metaphorically to denote any complex, underground system or a maze-like environment. In a broader sense, it signifies any hidden or secretive place, adding a sense of mystery and intrigue to its connotation.

2. Burial-places in caves or hollow recesses under ground; divisions or niches in a cellar for storing liquors; certain old quarries near Rome, in Egypt, Paris, &c., used as burial-places.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CATACOMB

• catacory
• catacomes
• catakomb
• catacomba
• Catafora
• Cahrbomb
• catocombe
• catacmomb
• catacumb
• CAPCOMB

Etymology of CATACOMB

The word "catacomb" derives from the Latin word "catacumbas", which is believed to have originated from the Greek words "katà kýmbas", meaning "near the hollows". The Latin term originally referred to a specific underground burial place in Rome, known as the Catacombs of San Sebastiano. Over time, the word catacomb has come to be used as a general term for any underground burial structure or network of tunnels, particularly those used by early Christians for burial and worship.

Plural form of CATACOMB is CATACOMBS