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Waterloo

Waterloo

10 6.0
A town in central Belgium where Napoleon loses his final battle in 1815
  • proper noun
  • /ˌwɔːtərˈluː/
translation icon : Waterloo
  • The Battle of Waterloo took place in 1815, marking the end of Napoleon's reign.
  • the University of Waterloo
  • Waterloo, Ontario
  • Waterloo, Canada

Examples

  • We are at Waterloo in what's now Belgium, and it's just to the South of Brussels.

  • Yet local authorities are not convinced that the Waterloo battlefield is living up to its potential as a tourist destination.

    Academic text (2007)
  • A town called Waterloo?

  • Destination is Waterloo Station.

  • He met his Waterloo.

  • Many tourists visit Waterloo each year to learn about its historical significance.

  • In Waterloo, Belgium, you can find a memorial dedicated to those who fought in the battle.

Compounds

A major battle on 18 June 1815 near Waterloo in which allied armies defeat Napoleon and end his rule

Surface Forms

Waterloo main

Etymology

Waterloo as a town name comes from old Dutch parts water and loo, where loo meant 'wood' or 'clearing', so the name suggests a 'wet wood' or 'water clearing'. The town became famous because the decisive battle of 1815 was fought there, which is why people visit the battlefield today.