Lamppost

/ˈlæmppoʊst/ noun

Definition

A tall pole that holds an electric light fixture, typically found on streets and sidewalks to illuminate public areas at night.

Etymology

Compound word from 'lamp' (from Greek 'lampas' meaning 'torch') and 'post' (from Latin 'postis' meaning 'stake' or 'pole'). The combination emerged as gas and electric street lighting became common in the 19th century.

Kelly Says

Lampposts became iconic symbols of urban nightlife and loneliness—think of lonely characters in films standing under a single circle of light—turning a practical utility into a symbol of isolation that poets and filmmakers have used for over a century!

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