Barrack
/ˈbærək/noun
A building or group of buildings used to house soldiers or other organized personnel.
Did you know?The word entered military English through European armies, but its deeper origin is uncertain; it may ultimately connect to Mediterranean words for a temporary hut or shelter.
Etymological Timeline
16th Century
Catalan
barraca
“A hut or temporary shelter, especially a simple structure.”
16th Century
Spanish
barraca
“A hut, booth, or temporary building.”
16th Century
Italian
baracca
“A hut or rough shelter; the ultimate source is uncertain.”
17th Century
French
baraque
“A hut, shed, or temporary military shelter.”
17th Century
English
barrack
“A building provided for soldiers to live in.”
Modern English
English
barrack
“A military lodging building; also, as a verb in Australian and New Zealand English, to cheer or support noisily.”