museum

mu-se-um · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A building or institution where objects of historical, scientific, artistic, or cultural interest are stored and exhibited.

  2. 2.

    A collection of items or a place that seems to preserve the past.

Forms

plural: museums

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    museum piece — something old-fashioned or outdated
  • •
    open-air museum — an outdoor museum with buildings or artifacts

Related words

See also: art, exhibition, gallery
Synonyms: exhibition hall, gallery

Etymology

From Latin museum, from Greek mouseion ("seat of the Muses"), from Mousa ("Muse"). Originally referred to a place dedicated to the Muses, the goddesses of the arts.