Meaning of "obelisk" in English

An "obelisk" is a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape at the top. These structures were originally created by the ancient Egyptians and were often constructed to honor significant deities or commemorate important events. Obelisks are typically made from stone and are considered architectural marvels due to their imposing height and intricate carvings that often tell historical stories. Today, they can be found in various cultures as a symbol of commemoration or a marker of historical significance.

Meaning of "obélisque" in French

An "obélisque" is a monumental column that tapers from a square or rectangular base to a pyramidal top, often made from a single stone. Historically, these structures originate from ancient Egypt, where they were erected as sacred monuments. The obélisque was considered a representation of the sun god, Ra, and designed to stand in front of temples. In modern times, obélisques can be found in many cities worldwide, serving as commemorative monuments and symbols of cultural exchange and historical preservation.

Pronunciation of "obelisk" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈɒb.ə.lɪsk/

Pronunciation Variations: In British English, the "o" is pronounced like the "o" in "bond," while in American English, it's more like the "a" in "father." The "i" is short in both dialects, similar to the "i" in "sit."

Pronunciation of "obélisque" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ɔ.be.lisk/

Pronunciation Variations: Typically pronounced the same throughout French-speaking regions, though subtle differences may occur in the articulation of the vowels based on local accents. The "é" is pronounced like the "e" in "they," and the "q" is silent.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The towering obelisk stood proudly in the center of the plaza.
    (L'obélisque imposant se dressait fièrement au centre de la place.)

  2. Ancient Egyptians used obelisks to mark significant events.
    (Les Égyptiens anciens utilisaient des obélisques pour marquer des événements importants.)

  3. Many obelisks have intricate hieroglyphics carved into them.
    (Beaucoup d'obélisques ont des hiéroglyphes complexes gravés dessus.)

  4. The Washington Monument is a famous obelisk in the United States.
    (Le Monument de Washington est un célèbre obélisque aux États-Unis.)

  5. Tourists gathered around the obelisk to take photos.
    (Les touristes se rassemblèrent autour de l'obélisque pour prendre des photos.)

  6. The obelisk, a symbol of Egyptian architecture, fascinates historians.
    (L'obélisque, un symbole de l'architecture égyptienne, fascine les historiens.)

  7. Renovation efforts helped preserve the ancient obelisk.
    (Les efforts de rénovation ont aidé à préserver l'ancien obélisque.)

  8. The obelisk's shadow stretched across the city square.
    (L'ombre de l'obélisque s'étendait sur la place de la ville.)

  9. Obelisks were often placed at the entrance of temples.
    (Les obélisques étaient souvent placés à l'entrée des temples.)

  10. The museum had a miniature replica of an Egyptian obelisk.
    (Le musée avait une réplique miniature d'un obélisque égyptien.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "obelisk" in English

Synonyms: monument, pillar, column, spire, shaft, tower, needle

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: stele, cenotaph, marker, plinth, cairn

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "obélisque" in French

Synonyms: monument, colonne, pilier, aiguille

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: stèle, cénotaphe, borne, monolithe

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