angkor wat: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Formal, academic, cultural, journalistic.
Quick answer
What does “angkor wat” mean?
A vast and famous temple complex in northwestern Cambodia, originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu and later converted to a Buddhist temple.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A vast and famous temple complex in northwestern Cambodia, originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu and later converted to a Buddhist temple.
Often used as a quintessential symbol of Cambodian cultural heritage, architectural brilliance, and ancient civilization. It can also refer metonymically to the entire ancient city of Angkor or serve as a benchmark for massive, awe-inspiring historical structures.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal. British English may have a slightly stronger historical/colonial-era association, while American English usage is more commonly tied to travel journalism and documentaries. No spelling differences.
Connotations
Similar in both: history, exotic travel destination, UNESCO World Heritage Site, archaeological wonder. No significant negative connotations.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both varieties, appearing in comparable contexts like history texts, travel guides, and cultural documentaries.
Grammar
How to Use “angkor wat” in a Sentence
[Subject] visited/explored/photographed Angkor Wat.Angkor Wat is located in/near Siem Reap.Angkor Wat was built/constructed/completed in the 12th century.Angkor Wat represents/symbolizes the pinnacle of Khmer architecture.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “angkor wat” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not used as a verb]
American English
- [Not used as a verb]
adverb
British English
- [Not used as an adverb]
American English
- [Not used as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- The Angkor Wat style influenced later Southeast Asian architecture.
- We studied Angkor Wat iconography.
American English
- The Angkor Wat complex is stunning at sunrise.
- They offer Angkor Wat tour packages.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly in tourism industry reports: 'Tourism to Angkor Wat drives the local economy.'
Academic
Common in history, archaeology, art history, and religious studies: 'The bas-reliefs at Angkor Wat depict scenes from Hindu epics.'
Everyday
In travel discussions: 'We're planning a trip to see Angkor Wat.'
Technical
In archaeology/architecture: 'The sandstone construction of Angkor Wat demonstrates advanced engineering.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “angkor wat”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “angkor wat”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “angkor wat”
- Misspelling as 'Angor Wat' or 'Ankor Wat'.
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'We saw many Angkor Wats').
- Confusing it with Angkor Thom (a different, walled city within the larger Angkor complex).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Wat' is a Khmer word meaning 'temple' or 'monastery'. So, Angkor Wat essentially means 'Temple City' or 'City Temple'.
It was originally constructed in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. By the end of the 12th century, it gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple, which it remains today.
Yes, visitors can enter the temple complex and explore its many galleries, courtyards, and central towers, though access to some upper levels may be restricted for preservation.
It is renowned for its immense scale, stunning architecture, intricate bas-reliefs, and its status as a magnificent symbol of the sophisticated Khmer Empire. Its iconic silhouette is a national symbol of Cambodia.
A vast and famous temple complex in northwestern Cambodia, originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu and later converted to a Buddhist temple.
Angkor wat is usually formal, academic, cultural, journalistic. in register.
Angkor wat: in British English it is pronounced /ˌæŋkɔː ˈwɒt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɑːŋkɔːr ˈwɑːt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Not idiomatic as a phrase, but often used in metaphors, e.g., 'It's the Angkor Wat of libraries,' meaning it is the most magnificent or extensive example of its kind.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'ANGKOR is an ANCIENT KINGDOM's Outstanding Relic. WAT means temple.' Put together: Ancient Kingdom's Temple.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SYMBOL OF LOST GRANDEUR / A MONUMENT TO HUMAN ACHIEVEMENT / A STONE TEXT OF HISTORY.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary historical function of Angkor Wat?