How Do You Spell OBELISKS?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒbəlɪsks] (IPA)

The word "obelisks" is spelled with an "o" followed by a "b," "e," "l," "i," "s," and "k," with the stress on the second syllable. Each letter in the spelling of "obelisks" corresponds to a unique sound in IPA phonetic transcription. The "o" is pronounced as the "oh" sound, the "e" is pronounced as the "eh" sound, and the "i" is pronounced as the long "e" sound. The "s" is pronounced as the "s" sound, and the "k" is pronounced as the "k" sound.

OBELISKS Meaning and Definition

1. An obelisk is a tall, slender, four-sided monument or pillar that is typically stone-built with a pyramidal top. This architectural structure is characterized by its towering height and distinctive shape, consisting of a rectangular base that tapers upwards towards a pointed apex. Obelisks originated in ancient Egypt and were designed as commemorative symbols or gravestones, commonly found in pairs or as part of larger monumental complexes.

   Typically constructed from a single stone, obelisks were meticulously carved with hieroglyphics, inscriptions, or ornate reliefs that conveyed significant historical, religious, or political messages. These inscriptions often described the achievements, reigns, or divine connections of pharaohs and other important figures. The obelisk's lofty stature symbolized the reaching of the heavens and represented a connection between Earth and the divine.

   Beyond ancient Egypt, obelisks have been adopted and reproduced in various different cultures around the world, oftentimes serving similar purposes of commemoration, decoration, or symbolism. This includes the existence of numerous modern-day obelisks in cities worldwide, often located in prominent public spaces or as part of architectural ensembles or memorials.

   Due to their unique design and historical significance, obelisks hold great cultural and archaeological value, attracting visitors and scholars alike. They represent lasting testaments of ancient civilizations, showcasing the architectural expertise and cultural achievements of bygone eras.

Common Misspellings for OBELISKS

• obolisk
• obolisks
• oblisks
• oblisk
• obliesks
• obilisk
• obelised
• ibelisks
• kbelisks
• lbelisks
• pbelisks
• 0belisks
• 9belisks
• ovelisks
• onelisks
• ohelisks
• ogelisks
• obwlisks
• obslisks

Etymology of OBELISKS

The word "obelisk" comes from the Latin term "obeliscus", derived from the Greek word "obeliskos". In ancient Greek, this word referred to a small, pointed pillar. The Greek term originated from the Egyptian word "ḥnbn", meaning "to fortify" or "to support". It was used to describe the tall, four-sided stone monuments with a tapering, pyramid-like shape, which were commonly erected in ancient Egypt as commemorative or religious structures. Over time, "obeliscus" entered Latin and was eventually adopted by other languages to refer to similar structures, maintaining the original meaning of the ancient Egyptian word.

Similar spelling words for OBELISKS

• obolus,
• obelisk.