hypogeum

noun

hy·​po·​ge·​um ˌhī-pə-ˈjē-əm How to pronounce hypogeum (audio)
plural hypogea ˌhī-pə-ˈjē-ə How to pronounce hypogeum (audio)
: the subterranean part of an ancient building
also : an ancient underground burial chamber

Examples of hypogeum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One of the main reasons the hypogeum has survived so well is because of its lack of natural light, which encourages the growth of biological organisms. — Julia Buckley, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 Jan. 2022 Though experts have finished restoring the hypogeum, officials still plan to renovate other parts of the arena’s structure. — Isis Davis-Marks, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 June 2021

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin hypogēum, hypogaeum "underground chamber," borrowed from Greek hypógeion, hypógaion, noun derivative from neuter of hypógeios, hypógaios "underground, subterranean" — more at hypogeal

First Known Use

circa 1706, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hypogeum was circa 1706

Rhymes for hypogeum

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Browse Nearby Words

hypogenous
hypogeum
hypoglossal
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Cite this Entry

“Hypogeum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypogeum. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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