steeple

[ stee-puhl ]

noun

1. an ornamental construction, usually ending in a spire, erected on a roof or tower of a church, public building, etc.
2. a tower terminating in such a construction.
3. (loosely) a spire.

verb (used with object)

, stee·pled, stee·pling.

1. to provide with or form into a steeple or steeplelike configuration.

steeple

/ ˈstiːpəl /

noun

1. a tall ornamental tower that forms the superstructure of a church, temple, etc
2. such a tower with the spire above it
3. any spire or pointed structure

Derived Forms

• ˈsteepled, adjective

Other Words From

• steepled adjective
• steeple·less adjective
• steeple·like adjective
• un·steepled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of steeple¹

before 1000; Middle English stepel steeple, tower, Old English stēpel tower. See steep ¹, -le

Word History and Origins

Origin of steeple¹

Old English stēpel; see steep ¹

Example Sentences

Once underestimated by her enemies, Martin, a self-appointed watchdog tuned into the plots and players in a small, gossipy community, has found that her message is radiating beyond the fields and steeples of Hood County.

From Los Angeles Times

Peregrine falcons in the city tend to nest at high points such as bridges and church steeples because they provide a good spot for the birds to spot prey.

From Seattle Times

This is the moment a church roof and steeple collapsed in New London, Connecticut.

From BBC

New Hampshire’s postcard image is of rural towns built around churches with picturesque white steeples.

From Los Angeles Times

The company is fully booked on midnight at its multiple venues, including its brown-brick chapel in downtown Las Vegas with a white steeple and red awning.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• cupola
• minaret
• spire
• turret