tower
tower
UK[ˈtaʊə(r)]US[ˈtaʊər]
n
a tall, narrow building, either standing alone or forming part of a castle, church, or other large structure.
v
to be much taller than the people or things around you.
Etymology
the word 'tower' entered english in the late old english period as 'torr', borrowed from the latin 'turris'. latin likely acquired it from the ancient greek 'τύρρις' (týrrhis), a term for a tower or fortified structure. the greek word itself is thought to be a loan from a pre-indo-european mediterranean language source, reflecting the ancient and widespread architectural concept. the semantic core has remained remarkably stable, evolving from a general term for a high, fortified structure to encompass any tall, narrow building or a metaphorical state of great height.
Analysis
the word 'tower' is a simplex word derived from a single root. its functional role is as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
the castle's main tower offered a commanding view of the surrounding countryside.
the new skyscraper will tower over the city's existing buildings.
she felt a sense of isolation, like she was in an ivory tower, detached from everyday problems.