monument
MON-yuh-muhnt
/ˈmɒnjʊmənt/
A statue, building, or other structure erected to commemorate a notable person or event.
Usually implies something large, permanent, and architectural.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'monumentum,' which comes from 'monere' (to remind). Interestingly, this is the same root as 'monitor' and 'monster' (a warning sign).
Word relationships
- statue: A statue is specifically a carved figure; a monument can be a building, a park, or a pillar.
Commonly confused with
- moment: A moment is a brief period of time; a monument is a lasting structure.
Word family
- monumental (adjective): Great in importance, extent, or size.
Collocations
- national monument
- ancient monument
- monument to
Example sentences
- "The pyramids are the most famous monuments of ancient Egypt." Describing ancient history.
- "His greatest monument is the school system he helped to build." Describing a person's lasting impact.
Memory hook
A Monument 'Monitors' the past so we don't forget. A warning from history.
When not to use
Don't use it for small, temporary items like a card or a bouquet.
Fun facts
- The Washington Monument was the tallest structure in the world when it was completed in 1884.
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