castle

cas-tle · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A large fortified building or group of buildings, typically from medieval times.

  2. 2.

    In chess, to make a special move involving the king and a rook.

  3. 3.

    A large impressive house, especially one that resembles a fortress.

  4. 4.

    In chess, the rook piece.

Forms

plural: castles

Phrases & expressions

  • castle in the air/sky — an unrealistic fantasy or daydream
  • a man's home is his castle — one has the right to privacy in their home
  • sand castle — a model castle built from sand

Related words

Etymology

From Old English castel, from Latin castellum ("fortress"), diminutive of castrum ("fort, fortified place"). Related to French chateau.