hall
UK: hɔːl | US: hɔːl
n. a large room or building for public gatherings, events, or ceremonies
n. the entrance area of a house or building; a corridor
n. (historical) a large residence or manor house
The word "hall" traces back to Old English heall, meaning "a large covered space, dwelling, or palace," derived from Proto-Germanic hallō. It shares roots with Old Norse höll and German Halle, all referring to spacious structures. Originally tied to Germanic tribal mead halls (like those in Beowulf), the term evolved to denote grand buildings, then public spaces, and finally domestic entryways. The core idea of "spaciousness" persists across its meanings.
The wedding reception was held in the grand hall of the hotel.
She left her umbrella in the hall by the front door.
Medieval kings often hosted feasts in their great halls.
The town hall is hosting a community meeting tonight.
Students gathered in the lecture hall for the guest speaker’s talk.