adjective

medieval

med-ee-EE-vul/ˌmediˈiːvl/

Of the period known as the Middle Ages.

A medieval stone castle stands beside a market with timber stalls.

A medieval stone castle and market scene with historically plausible clothing and timber stalls.
Etymology

The pieces express “relating to the middle age.” Here “middle” belongs to the historical period name, the Middle Ages, rather than describing something merely intermediate in age.

In context

DW Travel7:36
a living room of a wealthy family in medieval ages to have looked like. One of the most visually attractive things are the two tapestries that are hanging here. Tapestries evolved in the 14th century or even earlier.
Eltz Castle in Germany: Would you like to live here?

More examples

  • She studies medieval history at the university.
  • The museum displays medieval armor and weapons.
  • We hear medieval music performed on traditional instruments.

Forms

medieval

medievalist noun — A scholar who studies the Middle Ages.