balneary
|bal-nea-ry|
/ˈbælniəri/
related to baths / a bathing place
Etymology
'balneary' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'balnearius', where 'balneum' meant 'bath'.
'balnearius' (Late Latin) passed into Middle English as 'balneary' and remained in use in English with senses relating to baths and bathing places.
Initially it meant 'of or pertaining to baths' (adjectival sense), and over time it also came to be used as a noun meaning 'a bathing place' or 'spa'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a place for bathing, especially a spa, bathhouse, or bathing resort (often a place with thermal or medicinal baths).
The coastal town developed a popular balneary that drew visitors every summer.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to baths or bathing.
The town is famed for its balneary waters believed to have healing properties.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/07 18:32