Bonspiel is a term that is commonly used in the world of curling, a sport that originated in Scotland in the 16th century. It is a term that is used to describe a curling tournament or competition where teams from different clubs come together to compete against each other. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bonspiel, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, bonspiel is defined as “a curling tournament, especially one played between teams from different clubs.” The term is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word “bonn” which means “base” or “foundation” and “speil” which means “game” or “match.”
Origin
Curling originated in Scotland in the 16th century, and the first recorded bonspiel was held in 1815 in Scotland. The term bonspiel is believed to have originated in Scotland, where it was used to describe a curling tournament or competition between teams from different clubs.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines bonspiel as “a curling tournament.” The Cambridge English Dictionary defines it as “a curling competition between teams from different clubs.” The Collins English Dictionary defines it as “a curling tournament, especially one between teams from different clubs.”
Associations
Bonspiels are typically associated with curling, a sport that is played on ice. They are often held in the winter months when the ice is thick enough to support the weight of the players and the stones. Bonspiels can be held at the local, regional, or national level, and they are often used as a way to bring together players from different clubs and communities.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bonspiel include curling tournament, curling competition, and curling match.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of bonspiel, but some related terms include individual competition and team competition.
The same root words
The root words of bonspiel, “bonn” and “speil,” are also found in other Scottish Gaelic words such as “bonnach” (a type of bread) and “speiliche” (a gambler).
Example Sentences
- The local curling club is hosting a bonspiel next weekend.
- The national bonspiel is being held in Calgary this year.
- We are hoping to win the bonspiel and bring the trophy back to our club.
- The bonspiel was a great success, with teams from all over the region participating.