Chamber

Definition

Chamber refers to a room, particularly a large or private one, used for a specific purpose. It can also describe an enclosed space or cavity within an object or structure, such as the chambers of the heart or a bullet chamber in a firearm. In politics, "chamber" refers to a legislative or deliberative body, such as the "upper chamber" in government.

Parts of Speech

• Noun (a room or enclosed space, or a legislative body)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtʃeɪmbər/
• Respelling: CHAYM-buhr

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtʃeɪmbə/
• Respelling: CHAYM-buh

Etymology

The word "chamber" comes from the Old French "chambre," which is derived from the Latin word "camera," meaning "room" or "vault." The word entered the English language in the 13th century and has evolved to cover a range of meanings, from a private room to an enclosed space and, later, legislative bodies.

Derivatives

• Chambered (adjective)
• Chamberlain (noun)
• Chambermaid (noun)
• Chamber music (noun)
• Unchambered (adjective)

Synonyms

• Room
• Hall
• Cavity

Antonyms

• Open space
• Plaza
• Outdoor area

Usage

The word "chamber" is used in various contexts, from describing rooms to legislative bodies. In architecture, it refers to a room designed for specific purposes, such as "the king’s chamber." In medicine or biology, it refers to cavities within the body, as in "the chambers of the heart." In legislative terms, "chamber" is used to refer to houses of parliament or other decision-making bodies, such as "the upper chamber."

Related Terms

• Vault: An arched structure forming a roof or ceiling.
• Legislature: A body of elected individuals responsible for making laws.
• Cavity: A hollow or empty space within a structure or object.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large room used for formal or official purposes: Describes a room often used for important gatherings or legislative functions.
  • Example: "The council met in the main chamber of the building."
• An enclosed space within an object or body: Refers to any hollow or enclosed cavity within a physical structure.
  • Example: "The bullet was loaded into the chamber of the gun."
• A legislative or deliberative body: Refers to a house or body of elected representatives or legislators.
  • Example: "The bill was passed by the upper chamber of parliament."