Langimage
English

stronghold

|strong-hold|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈstrɔːŋˌhoʊld/

🇬🇧

/ˈstrɒŋˌhəʊld/

fortified place

Etymology
Etymology Information

'stronghold' originates from Old English, specifically the words 'strang' meaning 'strong' and 'heald' meaning 'hold'.

Historical Evolution

'strangheald' transformed into the Middle English word 'strongehold', and eventually became the modern English word 'stronghold'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a place of strength or defense', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a place that has been fortified to protect it against attack.

The castle served as a stronghold during the war.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a place where a particular cause or belief is strongly defended or upheld.

The city is a stronghold of liberal politics.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35