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Definition of grotto

grotto

/ˈɡrɑːtoʊ/
grot · to
Plural:grottoes
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grotto Lexical Profile

grotto Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A small picturesque cave, often associated with water, found in a natural rocky or coastal landscape.

Example

"We rented a small boat to explore the famous sea grotto hidden along the rugged Mediterranean coastline."

2

An artificial indoor or outdoor structure resembling a natural cave, often used as a decorative or religious feature in parks, gardens, and estates.

Example

"The Renaissance estate featured an elaborate garden grotto adorned with seashells, mosaics, and a trickling fountain."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for grotto

• Rhymes for grotto

• Nearby Words

grot
grotesque
grotesquely
grotto
grotto falls
grotty
grouch

Word Origin & Etymology

Late 16th century: from Italian 'grotta', which evolved from Latin 'crypta', ultimately from Greek 'kruptē' meaning 'hidden vault'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Grotto. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 10, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/grotto
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