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stele

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈstiːli/

KK: /ˈstiːli/

noun
Definition

A tall stone or slab that has writing or carvings on it, often used to mark a grave or commemorate an event.


Example

The archaeologists discovered an ancient stele covered in hieroglyphics.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen that ancient stele at the museum?
Sloth B
Yeah, I did! It's fascinating how much history it represents.
Sloth A
I read that it was used as a commemorative tablet long ago.
Sloth B
Exactly! It really gives you a glimpse into the past.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tablet
monument
pillar
Antonyms
void
absence
dissolution
Root Explanation

**Stele** → The word 'stele' comes from the Greek 'stēlē' (στήλη), meaning a pillar or slab. It refers to a stone or wooden slab, often used for inscriptions or as a grave marker.

Memory Tip

Imagine a tall 'pillar' ('stēlē') that stands to commemorate something important, helping you remember that a stele is a type of stone or wooden slab.

Visually Confused Words
tele
sele
sterlet
sterile
stemple
stemlet
steeple
steeler
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