pilaster

[ pi-las-ter ]

noun

, Architecture.

1. a shallow rectangular feature projecting from a wall, having a capital and base and usually imitating the form of a column.

pilaster

/ pɪˈlæstə /

noun

1. a shallow rectangular column attached to the face of a wall

Derived Forms

• piˈlastered, adjective

Other Words From

• under·pi·laster noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilaster¹

1565–75; pile ¹ (in obsolete sense “pillar”) + -aster ¹, modeled on Italian pilastro or Medieval Latin pīlastrum

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilaster¹

C16: from French pilastre, from Latin pīla pillar

Example Sentences

Boasting moulded architraves with pilasters and a truncated pyramidal roof topped with iron brattishing, the building's roof is now falling into dereliction.

From BBC

He painted this complex plane, with its traceries, sculptures, pilasters and sunken portals jutting out and receding, 28 times, after first painting two close-ups of the Tour Saint Romain, one of the two western towers.

From Washington Post

Well what about the pediment and the pilasters?

From Washington Post

They also expressed a deep admiration for the craftsmen who worked on the home, creating such elegant features as the egg-and-dart molding and fluted pilasters.

From Washington Post

The building’s Greek Revival architectural details include its broad gable front with a recessed panel door, and corner pilasters reminiscent of columns.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• dam
• dock
• jetty
• promenade
• wharf