IMPLUVIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Impluvium is a term derived from Latin that refers to a defining feature found in ancient Roman houses, more specifically in the atrium. In architectural terms, an impluvium is a sunken or slightly depressed rectangular basin that is typically located within the center of the atrium floor. Its main function is to collect rainwater, which falls through an opening in the roof known as a compluvium. The impluvium, acting as a catchment area, directs the rainwater through a drainage system known as the impluvium drain. This design allowed the Romans to utilize rainwater as a precious resource for various household purposes such as cooking, cleaning, and even for drinking.
The impluvium became an important element in Roman architecture as it not only served a practical purpose but also held symbolic significance. It represented the wealth and social status of the homeowners, as the ability to collect and utilize rainwater showcased their resources and prosperity. Additionally, the impluvium also created an aesthetic and functional focal point in the atrium, contributing to the overall beauty and elegance of the house.
Today, the term impluvium is also used metaphorically to describe any sunken or depressed area that collects or channels water, such as the basin in a fountain or a garden feature. Its historical significance and architectural ingenuity have made the impluvium an enduring concept in the study of ancient Roman architecture and design.
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The square basin or cistern in the fore-court or hall of an anc. Roman house for receiving the rain-water.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for IMPLUVIUM
- umpluvium
- jmpluvium
- kmpluvium
- ompluvium
- 9mpluvium
- 8mpluvium
- inpluvium
- ikpluvium
- ijpluvium
- imoluvium
- imlluvium
- im-luvium
- im0luvium
- impkuvium
- imppuvium
- impouvium
- implyvium
- implhvium
- impljvium
Etymology of IMPLUVIUM
The word "impluvium" comes from Latin and has its roots in the verb "impluere", which means "to rain down" or "to pour in". The term originally referred to a sunken area in the atrium of a Roman house, which was designed to collect rainwater that entered through the compluvium - an opening in the roof. The water collected in the impluvium was then used for various household purposes.
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