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donjon

keep, donjon

noun dohn-ZHOHN Rare
Travel & Places Landmarks

Origin: Old French donjon, from a Germanic root

Also means

dungeon (in a castle)

Usage Note

Donjon specifically means the great tower or keep of a medieval castle — the strongest, tallest tower used as a last refuge. English 'dungeon' (underground prison) is a false friend: a French donjon is above ground. To say 'dungeon' (underground cell) in French, use oubliette or cachot.

Examples

"Le donjon du château domine toute la vallée."

Natural Translation

The castle keep dominates the entire valley.

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