igloo

/'iglu:/

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Word: Igloo

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: An igloo is a type of house traditionally built by the Inuit people (often referred to as Eskimos) in cold, snowy areas. It is usually made from blocks of ice or snow and has a dome shape, which helps keep it warm inside.

Usage Instructions

• When to use: You can use the word "igloo" when talking about traditional houses in snowy regions, or when discussing architecture used in very cold climates.
• Example: "The children built a small igloo in the backyard using snow."

Advanced Usage

• An igloo can also be used metaphorically to describe a cozy, safe place, especially in a challenging environment.
• Example: "After a long day outdoors, my home feels like an igloo, warm and inviting."

Word Variants

• Igloos (plural): Refers to more than one igloo.
• Igloo-like (adjective): Describes something that resembles or has characteristics of an igloo.
  • Example: "The ice hotel had igloo-like rooms."

Different Meanings

• While "igloo" primarily refers to the snow structure, in some contexts, it can also refer to similar dome-shaped structures made for temporary shelters in cold climates.

Synonyms

• Snow house
• Ice house
• Dome house (though this is more general and not specific to cold climates)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include the word "igloo," but you might encounter phrases like "in the igloo" informally to describe being in a comfortable, sheltered place.

Summary

In summary, an igloo is a dome-shaped house made of snow or ice, traditionally built by Inuit people.

Academic

Noun

1. an Eskimo hut; usually built of blocks (of sod or snow) in the shape of a dome

Synonyms

• iglu