Meaning of "watchtower" in English

A watchtower is a tall structure built to guard an area and observe the surrounding landscape. Used historically in fortified cities and castles, watchtowers allowed sentries to detect approaching enemies or dangers from a distance. In addition to military applications, modern watchtowers can be seen in national parks and nature reserves, providing a vantage point for observing wildlife and scenic views. Nowadays, watchtowers might serve both security purposes and tourist attractions, combining historical interest with practical usage.

Meaning of "tour de guet" in French

A "tour de guet" is a French term for a structure serving as a lookout point, enabling occupants to survey vast areas. Historically, such towers were integral to military fortifications, allowing guards to spot potential threats. In contemporary settings, like parks and nature preserves, "tours de guet" can function as observation points for both security and public enjoyment. They offer an elevated perspective, making them valuable for strategic defense, wildlife observation, or simply taking in panoramic views.

Pronunciation of "watchtower" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈwɒtʃˌtaʊər/.

Pronunciation Variations: In the UK, "watchtower" might be pronounced with a more distinct 'r' sound in the final syllable. In the US, the 'r' is often more pronounced, while in some regional dialects, the emphasis might slightly shift between syllables.

Pronunciation of "tour de guet" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /tuːʁ də ɡɛ/.

Pronunciation Variations: Across France, the pronunciation tends to remain consistent, but some regions might slightly alter the 'r' in "tour," making it softer. The nasal quality of "guet" can vary, but generally, the pronunciation remains uniform.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The medieval castle had a watchtower overlooking the valley.

    • Le château médiéval avait une tour de guet surplombant la vallée.
  2. Soldiers kept watch from the watchtower to protect the city.

    • Les soldats montaient la garde depuis la tour de guet pour protéger la ville.
  3. The watchtower provided a panoramic view of the forest.

    • La tour de guet offrait une vue panoramique de la forêt.
  4. A fire watchtower was built in the national park.

    • Une tour de guet a été construite dans le parc national.
  5. The old watchtower is now a popular tourist attraction.

    • L'ancienne tour de guet est maintenant une attraction touristique populaire.
  6. From the watchtower, you can see miles of coastline.

    • Depuis la tour de guet, on peut voir des kilomètres de côte.
  7. The ancient watchtower has stood for hundreds of years.

    • L'ancienne tour de guet se tient depuis des centaines d'années.
  8. They used the watchtower to spot approaching ships.

    • Ils utilisaient la tour de guet pour repérer les navires approchant.
  9. The watchtower was rebuilt after the war.

    • La tour de guet a été reconstruite après la guerre.
  10. Each morning, the ranger climbed the watchtower to start his patrol.

    • Chaque matin, le garde montait dans la tour de guet pour commencer sa patrouille.

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

Synonyms: lookout, observatory, beacon, sentry post, guard tower.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: tower, fortification, bastion, viewpoint, platform.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "tour de guet" in French

Synonyms: belvédère, observatoire, poste de guet, vigie.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: tour, bastion, plateforme de vue, fortification.

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