How Do You Spell VOMITORY?

Pronunciation: [vˈɒmɪtəɹˌi] (IPA)

Vomitory is a somewhat unusual word, both in its spelling and its meaning. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /vəˈmɪtəri/. The word comes from the Latin word "vomitorium," which means "a passage through which a crowd enters and exits a stadium or theater." Despite its association with vomiting, the word has nothing to do with the act of throwing up or nausea. Instead, it refers to a large entrance or exit that lets people in or out quickly. While the spelling of the word might seem strange, it has been in use since the 17th century.

VOMITORY Meaning and Definition

1. Vomitory, as a noun, refers to a passage or an opening through which large numbers of people enter or exit a stadium, theater, or similar venue. It is typically a wide and often sloping corridor that allows for the rapid flow of a large crowd during or after an event. The term "vomitory" is derived from the Latin word "vomitorium," meaning "spew forth" or "disgorge." Although sometimes confused with the idea of an ancient Roman vomitorium, which in reality was more of a room where Romans would purge their food, the modern usage of the term has no relation to this historical practice.

   The vomitory acts as a vital means of entry or exit, designed to handle the inflow or outflow of a significant number of people efficiently. Its construction often takes into account crowd control and safety measures, ensuring the smooth flow of spectators. Vomitories are commonly found in sports stadiums, concert arenas, theaters, and other venues with large capacities. They may consist of long ramps, tunnels, or stairways, allowing attendees to swiftly move to or from their designated seating areas.

   Moreover, "vomitory" can also function as an adjective to describe something that causes vomiting or nausea. In this context, it refers to something that induces a sense of retching or disgust. However, its use as an adjective is less common, with its noun form being more widely recognized and utilized.

2. Emetic.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. • Causing to eject or throw up from the stomach.

   • An emetic; the door of a large building by which a great assemblage of people is let out.

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

Common Misspellings for VOMITORY

• comitory
• bomitory
• gomitory
• fomitory
• vimitory
• vkmitory
• vlmitory
• vpmitory
• v0mitory
• v9mitory
• vonitory
• vokitory
• vojitory
• vomutory
• vomjtory
• vomktory
• vomotory
• vom9tory
• vom8tory

Etymology of VOMITORY

The word "vomitory" originates from the Latin term "vōmītōrium", which is derived from the verb "vōmitus", meaning "vomit" or "to vomit". In ancient Roman architecture, a "vōmītōrium" referred to the entrance or exit passages that facilitated the flow of people into and out of large public venues, such as amphitheaters or stadiums, similar to modern-day aisles. This usage likely developed due to the swift and expansive movement of crowds through these entrances, evoking the imagery of vomiting forth or spewing out. Over time, "vomitory" has come to be associated more specifically with the passageways leading to and from seating areas in sports stadiums and theaters.

Similar spelling word for VOMITORY

• vomiter.

Plural form of VOMITORY is VOMITORIES