The word “burgh” is not a commonly used term in everyday language, but it has an interesting history and meaning. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “burgh”, its origins, and its associations.
Definitions
A burgh is a Scottish word that refers to a town or city that has been granted a royal charter. In medieval times, burghs were important centers of trade and commerce, and they had their own legal and administrative systems. The term can also refer to a fortified settlement or a borough in England.
Origin
The word “burgh” comes from the Old English word “burh”, which means a fortified town or settlement. The word was brought to Scotland by Anglo-Saxon settlers in the 7th century, and it became an important term in Scottish history.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, “burgh” is defined as “a town or borough, especially one in Scotland that has been granted a royal charter”. Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines it as “a medieval Scottish town or borough with a royal charter”. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “a town or city in Scotland that has been given the right to govern itself”.
Associations
Burghs were important centers of trade and commerce in medieval Scotland, and they played a key role in the country’s economy. They were also centers of culture and learning, with universities and other institutions of higher education. Today, many Scottish towns and cities still bear the title of “burgh”.
Synonyms
Synonyms for “burgh” include town, city, borough, and municipality.
Antonyms
Antonyms for “burgh” include rural area, countryside, and village.
The same root words
The word “burgh” shares its root with other words in the English language, such as “borough”, “burg”, and “burgher”. These words all refer to a town or settlement, and they are often used interchangeably.
Example Sentences
- The town of Stirling was granted burgh status in the 12th century.
- Many of the burghs in medieval Scotland were located on the coast, where they could trade with other countries.
- The burgh council was responsible for maintaining law and order in the town.
- The burghers of Edinburgh played an important role in the Scottish Enlightenment.
- The village was located just outside the burgh limits.