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Glossary of Architectural Terms Used
- arch – curved structure used as a support over an open space
- architrave – beam resting directly on the tops of columns; the bottom section of the entablature
- baluster – any of the singular posts of a railing
- balustrade – row of columns supporting a railing
- coffer – decorative sunken panel in a ceiling or dome
- colonnade – series of columns set at regular intervals
- column – cylindrical support consisting of base, shaft and capital (cap)
- Corinthian – the most elaborate of the three orders of Greek architecture, distinguished by a bell-shaped capital with a design of acanthus leaves
- cornice – the top section of the entablature; a horizontal molding projecting along the top of a building or wall
- cupola – a small dome or similar structure on a roof
- dais – raised platform at the end of a room or chamber
- dome – roof formed by a series of rounded arches or vaults on a round or many-sided base
- Doric – the oldest architectural style of ancient Greece; characterized by simplicity of form; fluted, heavy columns and simple capitals
- entablature – a horizontal superstructure supported by columns and composed of architrave, frieze and cornice
- fasces – bundle of rods bound about an ax; a sculpted or carved depiction of it; Roman symbol of power and authority
- frieze – the horizontal band forming the middle section of the entablature; usually decorated with sculpture
- guilloche – ornamental trim formed by intertwining bands
- Ionic – Greek style of architecture characterized by ornamental scrolls on the capitals
- lantern – open structure on a roof or in a tower or dome that admits light and air
- mansard roof – a roof with two slopes on each of the four sides, the lower steeper than the upper
- parapet – a low wall or railing on a balcony or bridge
- pediment – a low-pitched gable or decorative triangular piece on the front of a building above a doorway or portico
- pendentive bracket – vaulting area that serves to connect an angle of a square area enclosed by four arches with a dome resting upon the arches
- pilaster – a rectangular support projecting slightly from a wall, treated architecturally as a column
- plinth – the square block at the base of a column, pedestal or statue
- porte cochere – driveway under or through a portion of a building
- portico – a porch or covered walk consisting of a roof supported by columns
- rotunda – the round hall or room surmounted by a dome
- terra cotta – a hard brown-red earthenware, usually unglazed, used for ornamental facing
- tympanum – recessed space enclosed by slanting cornices of a pediment
- vault – an arched chamber
- vestibule – small entrance hall of a building