tumulus

noun tu·mu·lus \ ˈtü-myə-ləs , ˈtyü- , ˈtə- \

Definition of tumulus

plural tumuli play \ˈtü-myə-ˌlī, -ˌlē, ˈtyü-, ˈtə-\

: an artificial hillock or mound (as over a grave); especially : an ancient grave : barrow

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Recent Examples of tumulus from the Web

Resembling an ancient burial mound known as a tumulus, Maropeng's entrance blends artfully with the grassland surroundings.

— Smithsonian, "Accessibility Navigation," 27 Mar. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'tumulus.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of tumulus

Middle English, from Latin; akin to Latin tumēre to swell — more at ¹thumb

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First Known Use: 15th century

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