CHARNEL HOUSE Meaning and
Definition
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A charnel house is a term originating from medieval times that refers to a structure used for the storage and treatment of human skeletal remains, primarily bones and corpses. This structure was usually found adjacent to or within a cemetery, often within a church or abbey. It was meant to house and preserve the remains of the deceased, particularly during times of limited burial space or when the existing burial grounds were overcrowded.
In essence, a charnel house served as a repository for the dead, allowing for dignified and organized storage of human remains. It provided a designated space for the preservation of bones, which were carefully arranged and stacked to maximize storage capacity. Additionally, it was a place where corpses were laid out or temporarily stored before being properly interred in graves.
The term charnel house has also evolved to carry a metaphorical meaning in contemporary usage. In a figurative sense, it is used to describe a place or situation marked by death and decay, evoking images of suffering, destruction, or societal upheaval. It symbolizes desolation, tragedy, or a grim reminder of mortality. Within literature and art, the concept of a charnel house has been metaphorically employed to explore themes of mortality, loss, and societal collapse.
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A place in some burial-grounds where the bones of the dead are stores up; a burial-ground where too many dead are interred.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CHARNEL HOUSE
- xharnel house
- vharnel house
- fharnel house
- dharnel house
- cgarnel house
- cbarnel house
- cnarnel house
- cjarnel house
- cuarnel house
- cyarnel house
- chzrnel house
- chsrnel house
- chwrnel house
- chqrnel house
- chaenel house
- chadnel house
- chafnel house
- chatnel house
- cha5nel house
Etymology of CHARNEL HOUSE
The word "charnel house" has an interesting etymology that dates back to the Middle Ages. The word "charnel" comes from the Old French word "charnel" or "charnelles", which means "flesh". It ultimately derives from the Latin word "carnalis", which means "relating to the flesh". In medieval times, "charnel" was often used to refer to anything relating to the human body or its physical aspects.The word "house", of course, comes from the Old English word "hus", which refers to a dwelling or a building.When combined, "charnel house" referred to a building or enclosure where human remains, particularly bones, were stored or placed. These buildings were often associated with churches, monasteries, or cemeteries and were used to store skeletal remains that had been exhumed or removed from graves during the process of cemetery clearance or expansion.
Similar spelling word for CHARNEL HOUSE
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