Word of the Day : February 24, 2018

caravansary \kair-uh-VAN-suh-ree\ noun

Definition

1 : an inn surrounding a court in eastern countries where caravans rest at night

2 : hotel, inn

Did You Know?

In the Middle East of centuries past, caravans often lodged at caravansaries. These inns were quadrangular in form and enclosed by massive walls with small windows near the top. The central court, which was surrounded by an arcade and storerooms, was large enough to hold 300 to 400 camels. The name was formed from the word caravan and the Persian word sarāī, meaning "palace" or "inn." Caravansary can also be spelled caravanserai, and the word serai is used as a synonym for it.

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Aired February 24, 2018

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