tower: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “tower” mean?
A tall, narrow building or structure, often standing alone or as part of a larger building such as a church or castle.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A tall, narrow building or structure, often standing alone or as part of a larger building such as a church or castle.
Metaphorically, something or someone that is very tall, imposing, or superior; also refers to a type of computer case or, in chess, the rook.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling differences; pronunciation varies slightly in rhoticity (non-rhotic in British English, rhotic in American English).
Connotations
Similar in both varieties, often associated with strength, height, and isolation.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both British and American English.
Grammar
How to Use “tower” in a Sentence
tower over something/someonetower above something/someoneVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “tower” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The new skyscraper towers over the London skyline.
- Her confidence towers above her peers.
American English
- The mountain towers above the valley.
- His reputation towers over the industry.
adjective
British English
- They live in a tower block in Manchester.
- The tower crane was visible from miles away.
American English
- The tower antenna was installed on the rooftop.
- They visited the tower restaurant for a view.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to corporate skyscrapers or headquarters, e.g., 'the company's new tower in the financial district'.
Academic
Used metaphorically, e.g., 'ivory tower' to describe academia isolated from practical issues.
Everyday
Commonly describes landmarks or tall structures, e.g., 'the tower in the town square'.
Technical
In engineering or technology, e.g., 'cooling tower', 'transmission tower', or 'computer tower'.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “tower”
- Using 'tower' as a verb without a preposition, e.g., incorrect: 'He towers the crowd.' Correct: 'He towers over the crowd.'
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily as a noun, but it is commonly used as a verb meaning to be very tall or to rise high, often with prepositions like 'over' or 'above'.
'Tower' is a general term for any tall, narrow structure, while 'skyscraper' specifically refers to a very tall building with many floors, typically for offices or residences.
Yes, it is neutral and used in both formal and informal settings, e.g., in everyday conversation about landmarks or metaphorically.
In British English, it is pronounced /ˈtaʊə/, with a non-rhotic ending.
A tall, narrow building or structure, often standing alone or as part of a larger building such as a church or castle.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “ivory tower”
- “tower of strength”
- “tower of Babel”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'tower' rhyming with 'power', as towers often symbolize power and height.
Conceptual Metaphor
Height as superiority or isolation; e.g., 'towering achievement' implies greatness.
Practice
Quiz
Which idiom uses 'tower' to describe someone who provides strong support?