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tholos

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈθoʊləs/

KK: /ˈθoʊləs/

noun
Definition

A type of ancient tomb that has a rounded, beehive shape, commonly found in Mycenaean Greece, often built into a hillside.


Example

The archaeologists discovered a tholos while excavating the ancient site.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen a tholos in person?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've read about them in my history class.
Sloth A
They're really fascinating; they were often built into hills.
Sloth B
I can imagine! It must be impressive to see such ancient architecture.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tomb
mausoleum
grave
Antonyms
Root Explanation

Tholos → The word 'tholos' comes from Ancient Greek 'θόλος' (tholos), meaning a dome or circular building. It specifically refers to a type of structure characterized by its circular plan and often a vaulted roof, commonly found in ancient Greek architecture.

Memory Tip

Imagine a circular building with a dome on top — that's what a tholos is, a unique architectural form from ancient Greece.

Visually Confused Words
holmos
thos
thoo
theologus
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