Why are dungeons called dungeons?

Answer 1

The term "dungeon" originates from the Old French word "donjon," which referred to the main tower of a castle or a fortified structure where the lord or noble resided. Over time, the meaning evolved to include underground cells or prisons used for holding captives. The association with dark, enclosed spaces contributed to the modern perception of dungeons as places of confinement and often torture, particularly in fantasy literature and role-playing games. Thus, dungeons became synonymous with both physical imprisonment and the adventurous exploration typical in games and stories.