A bunk bed is a type of bed that is designed to accommodate multiple people in a single sleeping arrangement. It is commonly used in places where space is limited, such as dormitories, military barracks, and summer camps. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bunk bed, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
A bunk bed is a type of bed that has two or more beds stacked on top of each other. The beds are usually supported by four poles or pillars, and a ladder is provided for access to the upper bed. The lower bed is often larger than the upper bed, and the beds are typically separated by a safety rail to prevent the sleeper from falling off.
Origin
The origin of the bunk bed can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where they were used in the tombs of pharaohs. They were also used in the cabins of ships during the Age of Exploration. The modern bunk bed was first used in the late 19th century in the United States, where it was used in military barracks and boarding schools.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a bunk bed is “a piece of furniture that has two or more beds arranged one above the other.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a bed consisting of two or more tiers of sleeping berths, one above the other, especially in a ship or dormitory.”
Associations
Bunk beds are often associated with children’s bedrooms, summer camps, and military barracks. They are also commonly used in hostels and dormitories, where space is limited. Bunk beds are often seen as a practical and space-saving solution for sleeping arrangements.
Synonyms
Synonyms for bunk bed include loft bed, double-decker bed, and high sleeper bed.
Antonyms
Antonyms for bunk bed include single bed, twin bed, and queen bed.
The same root words
The word “bunk” is derived from the Middle Dutch word “bunke,” which means “bench.” The word “bed” comes from the Old English word “bedd,” which means “sleeping place.”
Example Sentences
- The children slept in bunk beds in the cabin.
- The dormitory was equipped with bunk beds to accommodate more students.
- The army barracks had rows of bunk beds for the soldiers.
- The hostel provided bunk beds for backpackers and travelers.
- The summer camp had rustic cabins with bunk beds for the campers.