MEDIAEVAL Meaning and
Definition
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The term "mediaeval" refers to a historical period in Europe, also known as the Middle Ages, which spanned from the 5th to the 15th century. The word derives from the Latin "medium aevum," meaning "middle age." It's used to describe the time between the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the beginning of the Renaissance.
Medieval societies were characterized by feudalism, in which the land was divided among lords who granted portions to vassals in exchange for loyalty and military service. The Catholic Church exerted significant influence, both politically and socially, and played a central role in people's lives.
The mediaeval period saw significant advancements in various domains. Architecture was marked by the construction of grandiose cathedrals and castles, such as Notre-Dame of Paris and the Tower of London. Literature and art were shaped by themes of chivalry, courtly love, and religious devotion, giving rise to celebrated works like Dante's "Divine Comedy" and the paintings of Giotto.
Economic life revolved around agriculture and trade, with the emergence of market towns and the specialization of guilds in artisan crafts. Technological innovations like the use of watermills and the invention of the mechanical clock also characterized this period.
To sum up, the term "mediaeval" refers to the historical era that preceded the Renaissance, encompassing diverse aspects of society, culture, and economy. It represents a significant and formative period in European history that laid the foundations for the modern world.
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Of or relating to the middle ages-a period extending from the eighth to the fifteenth century of the Christian era.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MEDIAEVAL
- nediaeval
- kediaeval
- jediaeval
- mwdiaeval
- msdiaeval
- mddiaeval
- mrdiaeval
- m4diaeval
- m3diaeval
- mesiaeval
- mexiaeval
- meciaeval
- mefiaeval
- meriaeval
- meeiaeval
- meduaeval
- medjaeval
- medkaeval
- medoaeval
Etymology of MEDIAEVAL
The word "medieval" derives from the Latin word "medium aevum", which literally means "middle age". The term was coined in the 19th century to refer to the period between the decline of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance. It was used to describe the culture, art, and architecture of this period, which was seen as a time of relative cultural stagnation between the classical and modern eras. Over time, "medieval" became the preferred spelling in English.
Similar spelling word for MEDIAEVAL
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