Architecture and Construction - Classical Architecture

Here you will learn some English words related to classical architecture such as "arcade", "mutule", and "arch".

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Architecture and Construction
tambour [noun]

a round or drum-shaped architectural element that is often used for decorative purposes above doors or windows in buildings, or as a part of a dome

glyph [noun]

a decorative element or symbol carved or inscribed onto a surface

triglyph [noun]

a decorative element consisting of vertical rectangular blocks with three vertical grooves called glyphs

pediment [noun]

the triangular upper portion of the entrance of a building, often seen in buildings with Classical architecture

Ex: The Baroque façade was crowned with an elaborate pediment featuring sculpted figures and decorative motifs .

the horizontal, decorative element that rests on top of columns or pillars in architecture

Ex: The Corinthian order is characterized by its elaborate entablature , adorned with intricate carvings and ornamental details .
portico [noun]

a covered entrance or porch with columns, typically leading to the main entrance of a building and serving as a decorative architectural feature

Ex: The university library boasted a stunning neoclassical portico , welcoming students with its imposing façade .

a system of architectural design based on specific proportions, column styles, and decorative elements derived from ancient Greek and Roman architecture

xyst [noun]

a long, open garden or promenade surrounded by covered colonnades or porticoes

the lowest horizontal element of a classical entablature, typically located above the columns and below the frieze

metope [noun]

a rectangular space or panel between the triglyphs in a Doric frieze, often decorated with relief sculptures or painted designs

a horizontal band or section of an entablature in classical architecture, typically found in the Doric order, characterized by alternating triglyphs and metopes

a style of ancient Greek architecture known for its simple, sturdy columns without decoration at the top

arcade [noun]

an arch-covered passage along the side of a group of buildings

Ex: At the end of the arcade , a small courtyard opens up , providing a peaceful retreat from the busy streets .

a columned porch or courtyard that surrounds a building or an open space, typically found in ancient Greek and Roman architecture

stoa [noun]

a covered walkway or colonnade in ancient Greek architecture, typically consisting of a long row of columns with a roof overhead

odeon [noun]

a small, roofed theater or auditorium in ancient Greece and Rome used for musical performances, poetry readings, and other cultural events

basilica [noun]

a large, rectangular building with a central nave, side aisles, and often a raised apse at one end

loggia [noun]

a room or gallery that is open in one or more sides, particularly one that is attached to a house and faces a garden on one side

Ex: The Art Deco apartment building had a stylish rooftop loggia , perfect for residents to enjoy cocktails while taking in the city skyline .
cella [noun]

the central chamber or inner sanctuary of a temple in classical architecture, where the cult statue or sacred objects were housed

a decorative motif in the form of stylized flower or leaf, typically used in ancient Greek and neoclassical architecture

arcature [noun]

a series of arches or arcades that are supported by columns or piers, often used in architectural designs to create decorative openings or galleries

a decorative ribbon or scroll motif typically found in Renaissance and Baroque styles, often used to display inscriptions or decorative elements

cyma [noun]

a double-curved molding profile featuring a concave upper curve and a convex lower curve, commonly used in classical and neoclassical architecture for decorative purposes

exedra [noun]

a semicircular or rectangular recess in a building, often with seating, used for social gatherings or as a decorative architectural feature

the topmost platform or step of a classical Greek or Roman temple on which the columns are placed

corona [noun]

a projecting decorative molding or cornice forming the uppermost part of an entablature or wall, common in classical architecture

Ex: The building 's corona was ornamented with carved leaves .
acroter [noun]

an ornamental element placed on the apex or corners of a pediment or the top of a roof in classical architecture, typically depicting decorative figures or motifs

grotto [noun]

a small, often artificial, cave-like structure or enclosed space that is designed for aesthetic or functional purposes

mutule [noun]

a decorative block or projection that is typically found under the projecting eaves of a classical entablature

one of the classical architectural orders characterized by slender, fluted columns with scroll-like capitals adorned with volutes

a classical architectural order characterized by its ornate capital adorned with acanthus leaves, often used in grand and elaborate structures

cornice [noun]

a decorative molding or projection that runs along the topmost part of a building's exterior wall, typically serving as a crowning element and providing a transition between the wall and the roof

antefix [noun]

a decorative element used in classical architecture to cover the joints between roof tiles and the eaves of a building, often featuring intricate designs or motifs

a decorative pattern in architecture that features alternating oval shapes and V-shaped forms used in molding or friezes

atrium [noun]

an open central courtyard or space, often with a skylight, typically surrounded by walls, characteristic of ancient Roman architecture

Ex: Visitors admired frescoes that decorated the atrium walls .

an open building that is round or oval in shape and has a space in the middle surrounded by several seats, originated in ancient Roman and Greek architecture used for public entertainments such as sports or drama

Ex: The amphitheater 's architecture was a marvel of ancient engineering and design .

a simplified form of classical architectural order characterized by a plain and unadorned column with a simple capital and base

arch [noun]

a curved symmetrical structure that supports the weight above it, used in bridges or buildings

Ex: The ancient Roman aqueducts featured stone arches that allowed water to flow smoothly across long distances .