Camp vs. Compound: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 3, 2023
A camp is a place with temporary accommodations, often outdoors, while a compound is an enclosed area of buildings, often with a shared purpose or a chemical mixture.
Key Differences
A camp typically evokes imagery of tents, campfires, and nature, serving as a temporary accommodation for individuals or groups. On the contrary, a compound often refers to a group of buildings enclosed in a defined area, providing more permanence and security than a camp.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Many might think of summer camps for children or camping trips when picturing a camp. These are temporary, often recreational endeavors, situated amidst nature. On the other hand, when thinking of compounds, one might visualize military bases or large residences with multiple buildings within a protective boundary.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
The origin of the word camp traces back to the Latin 'campus', meaning 'field'. It signifies open spaces where armies or travelers could set up temporary shelters. Conversely, compound, with roots in Malay 'kampong', denotes an enclosed area, reflecting its function as a secure space.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Camps, with their inherent transitory nature, cater to a variety of purposes – from refugee camps due to crises to artistic retreats for inspiration. In contrast, compounds, with their structured and enclosed nature, often house specific operations, be it research, military, or residential purposes.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Camps and compounds both offer shelter and a communal living aspect. However, while camps lean more towards the temporary and often recreational side, compounds emphasize permanence, security, and often a shared goal or purpose.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Definition
Temporary outdoor accommodation
Enclosed area containing a group of buildings
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Oct 03, 2023
Contexts of Use
Recreation, travel, temporary shelter
Security, permanent operation, chemistry
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Oct 03, 2023
Etymology
From Latin 'campus' meaning 'field'
From Malay 'kampong' meaning enclosed area
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
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Camp and Compound Definitions
Camp
Temporary accommodations for displaced individuals.
The refugee camp provides shelter for those fleeing conflict.
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Oct 03, 2023
Compound
An enclosed area with multiple buildings.
The military compound was heavily guarded.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Camp
A stylized or exaggerated artistic or creative style.
His fashion sense is rather camp and theatrical.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Camp
A place where tents, huts, or other temporary shelters are set up, as by soldiers, nomads, or travelers.
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Oct 16, 2022
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Compound
To combine so as to form a whole; mix
Tin was often compounded with lead to make pewter.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A cabin or shelter or group of such buildings
Gathered branches and grasses for a makeshift camp.
Had a fishing camp in Vermont.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To produce or create by combining two or more ingredients or parts; compose or make up
Pharmacists compounding prescriptions.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To settle (a debt, for example) by agreeing on an amount less than the claim; adjust.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A place, often in the country, that offers simple group accommodations and organized recreation or instruction, as for vacationing children
A girls' summer camp.
A tennis camp.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
(Sports) A place where athletes engage in intensive training, especially preseason training.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To add to or intensify so as to make worse
"The university authorities ... compounded their crime in dismissing [the professor] by denying that their action ... reflected any abridgment of academic freedom" (John Kenneth Galbraith).
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To make worse by being an additional or intensifying factor
High winds compounded the difficulties of the firefighters.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A program offering group instruction or recreation without overnight facilities.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
Consisting of two or more substances, ingredients, elements, or parts.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A group of people who think alike or share a cause; side
The council members disagreed, falling into liberal and conservative camps.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
Deliberate affectation or exaggeration of style, especially of popular or outdated style, for ironic or humorous effect
"Camp is popularity plus vulgarity plus innocence" (Indra Jahalani).
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(Linguistics) A word that consists either of two or more elements that are independent words, such as loudspeaker, self-portrait, or high school, or of specially modified combining forms of words, such as Greek philosophia, from philo-, "loving," and sophia, "wisdom."
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
To live in or as if in a camp; settle
We camped in the apartment until the furniture arrived.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(Chemistry) A pure, macroscopically homogeneous substance consisting of atoms or ions of two or more different elements in definite proportions that cannot be separated by physical means. A compound usually has properties unlike those of its constituent elements.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
A building or buildings, especially a residence or group of residences, set off and enclosed by a barrier.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
An enclosure within which workers, prisoners, or soldiers are confined.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
Showing or characterized by camp
Played up the silliness of their roles for camp effect.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
A group of buildings situated close together, e.g. for a school or block of offices.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
An outdoor place acting as temporary accommodation in tents or other temporary structures.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(chemistry) A substance formed by chemical bonding of two or more elements in definite proportions by weight.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
An organised event, often taking place in tents or temporary accommodation.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(linguistics) A lexeme that consists of more than one stem or an affix, e.g. bookshop, high school or non-standard.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(rail) A compound locomotive, a steam locomotive with both high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(math) Dealing with numbers of various denominations of quantity, or with processes more complex than the simple process.
Compound addition
Compound proportion
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(music) An octave higher than originally (i.e. a compound major second is equivalent to a major ninth).
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(transitive) To form (a resulting mixture) by combining different elements, ingredients, or parts; to mingle with something else.
To compound a medicine
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To settle by agreeing on less than the claim, or on different terms than those stipulated.
To compound a debt
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
(agriculture) A mound of earth in which potatoes and other vegetables are stored for protection against frost
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(intransitive) To come to terms of agreement; to settle by a compromise.
To compound with someone / for something
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
The areas of the Falkland Islands situated outside the capital and largest settlement, Stanley.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To increase in value with interest, where the interest is earned on both the principal sum and prior earned interest.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
An electoral constituency of the legislative assembly of the Falkland Islands that composes of all territory more than 3.5 miles from the spire of the Christ Church Cathedral in Stanley.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
To live in a tent or similar temporary accommodation.
We're planning to camp in the field until Sunday.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
In the East Indies, an inclosure containing a house, outbuildings, etc.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
That which is compounded or formed by the union or mixture of elements ingredients, or parts; a combination of simples; a compound word; the result of composition.
Rare compound of oddity, frolic, and fun.
When the word "bishopric" was first made, it was made as a compound.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
To stay in an advantageous location.
Some players like to camp next to a power-up's spawning point.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
A union of two or more ingredients in definite proportions by weight, so combined as to form a distinct substance; as, water is a compound of oxygen and hydrogen.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
To stay beside (something) to gain an advantage.
The easiest way to win on this map is to camp the double damage.
Go and camp the flag for the win.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To form or make by combining different elements, ingredients, or parts; as, to compound a medicine.
Incapacitating him from successfully compounding a tale of this sort.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
To fight; contend in battle or in any kind of contest; to strive with others in doing anything; compete.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To put together, as elements, ingredients, or parts, in order to form a whole; to combine, mix, or unite.
We have the power of altering and compounding those images into all the varieties of picture.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To modify or change by combination with some other thing or part; to mingle with something else.
Only compound me with forgotten dust.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To settle amicably; to adjust by agreement; to compromise; to discharge from obligation upon terms different from those which were stipulated; as, to compound a debt.
I pray, my lords, let me compound this strife.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To effect a composition; to come to terms of agreement; to agree; to settle by a compromise; - usually followed by with before the person participating, and for before the thing compounded or the consideration.
Here's a fellow will help you to-morrow; . . . compound with him by the year.
They were at last glad to compound for his bare commitment to the Tower.
Cornwall compounded to furnish ten oxen after Michaelmas for thirty pounds.
Compound for sins they are inclined toBy damning those they have no mind to.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
The ground or spot on which tents, huts, etc., are erected for shelter, as for an army or for lumbermen, etc.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
Composed of two or more elements, ingredients, parts; produced by the union of several ingredients, parts, or things; composite; as, a compound word.
Compound substances are made up of two or more simple substances.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A collection of tents, huts, etc., for shelter, commonly arranged in an orderly manner.
Forming a camp in the neighborhood of Boston.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
(chemistry) a substance formed by chemical union of two or more elements or ingredients in definite proportion by weight
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
The company or body of persons encamped, as of soldiers, of surveyors, of lumbermen, etc.
The camp broke up with the confusion of a flight.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
An enclosure of residences and other building (especially in the Orient)
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A mound of earth in which potatoes and other vegetables are stored for protection against frost; - called also burrow and pie.
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
Make more intense, stronger, or more marked;
The efforts were intensified
Her rudeness intensified his dislike for her
Potsmokers claim it heightens their awareness
This event only deepened my convictions
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
To afford rest or lodging for, as an army or travelers.
Had our great palace the capacityTo camp this host, we all would sup together.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
To pitch or prepare a camp; to encamp; to lodge in a camp; - often with out.
They camped out at night, under the stars.
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
Temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers;
Wherever he went in the camp the men were grumbling
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
Of leaf shapes; of leaves composed of several similar parts or lobes
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A group of people living together in a camp;
The whole camp laughed at his mistake
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
Consisting of two or more substances or ingredients or elements or parts;
Soap is a compound substance
Housetop is a compound word
A blackberry is a compound fruit
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
Temporary lodgings in the country for travelers or vacationers;
Level ground is best for parking and camp areas
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
Composed of many distinct individuals united to form a whole or colony;
Coral is a colonial organism
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
A mixture of two or more elements or ingredients.
Water is a compound of hydrogen and oxygen.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Camp
A prison for forced laborers;
China has many work camps for political prisoners
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
To increase or intensify.
Late fees will compound if not paid on time.
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Oct 03, 2023
Camp
Something that is considered amusing not because of its originality but because of its unoriginality;
The livingroom was pure camp
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Oct 16, 2022
Compound
A substance used for a specific purpose.
She applied a medicinal compound to the wound.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Camp
Shelter for persons displaced by war or political oppression or for religious beliefs
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A site where care and activities are provided for children during the summer months;
City kids get to see the country at a summer camp
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
Live in or as if in a tent;
Can we go camping again this summer?
The circus tented near the town
The houseguests had to camp in the living room
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Oct 16, 2022
Camp
Providing sophisticated amusement by virtue of having artificially (and vulgarly) mannered or banal or sentimental qualities;
They played up the silliness of their roles for camp effect
Campy Hollywood musicals of the 1940's
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 16, 2022
Camp
A place for temporary lodging in tents or simple buildings.
We set up our camp near the lakeside.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Camp
A recreational summer retreat for children.
She's excited to attend the art camp next month.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Camp
A group supporting a specific idea or individual.
He belongs to the conservative camp in politics.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
FAQs
Do all camps involve nature and adventure?
Not necessarily. Camps can be thematic, like tech or art camps, held indoors.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
What does a chemical compound refer to?
It denotes a substance formed from two or more chemical elements.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Can you set up a camp in any public place?
No, camping regulations depend on the region and the property's nature.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
What typically comprises a camping setup?
A camp usually has tents, campfires, and basic amenities.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Is a compound always a secure area?
While many compounds are secure, it primarily denotes an enclosed area with buildings.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Is camping only a summer activity?
No, camping can occur year-round, depending on the region and purpose.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Can a compound be residential?
Yes, compounds can be residential areas with multiple houses enclosed together.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
What's a base camp in mountaineering?
It's the primary camp from which climbers start their ascent and return.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Are compounds common in certain countries or cultures?
Yes, compounds are prevalent in areas where security or communal living is emphasized.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Can a camp be indoors?
Though generally associated with outdoors, "camp" can also refer to temporary indoor accommodations.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Is the compound in chemistry the same as in real estate?
No, in chemistry, it's about mixed elements, while in real estate, it refers to enclosed buildings.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
What is a boot camp in fitness?
It's a rigorous training program emphasizing intense exercises.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Can compounds have recreational facilities?
Yes, some residential or resort compounds offer pools, gyms, and other amenities.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Is a compound's primary purpose protection?
Often, but not always. It denotes an enclosed space, which can be for security, community, or other reasons.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Can a camp be permanent?
Generally, camps are temporary, but some can exist longer based on their purpose.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
What are compounds used for in medicine?
Medicinal compounds are mixtures used to treat, heal, or alleviate symptoms.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Is camping safe in wildlife areas?
It can be, but it's crucial to take precautions and be informed about local wildlife.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
What is the primary difference between camp and compound?
A camp is a temporary accommodation, often outdoors, while a compound is an enclosed area of buildings with a shared purpose.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
How is a compound word different from other words?
Compound words are formed by combining two or more separate words.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Why is camp sometimes used in the context of fashion?
"Camp" can mean exaggerated or theatrical, as seen in certain fashion styles.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
