soffit

[ sof-it ]

noun

, Architecture.

1. the underside of an architectural feature, as a beam, arch, ceiling, vault, or cornice.

soffit

/ ˈsɒfɪt /

noun

1. the underside of a part of a building or a structural component, such as an arch, beam, stair, etc
2. Also calledcrownvertex the upper inner surface of a drain or sewer Compare invert

Word History and Origins

Origin of soffit¹

1605–15; < French soffite < Italian soffitto < Vulgar Latin *suffīctus, for Latin suffīxus; suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of soffit¹

C17: via French from Italian soffitto, from Latin suffixus something fixed underneath, from suffīgere, from sub- under + fīgere to fasten

Example Sentences

The bond of an arch obtains its name from the arrangement of headers and stretchers on its soffit.

From Project Gutenberg

If the arch is in Flemish the soffit presents the same appearance as the elevation of a wall built in that bond.

From Project Gutenberg

A projection upon the soffit of the Doric corona, which originally marked the position of the rafter-ends beneath the sheathing.

From Project Gutenberg

The soffit of the arch of the Choir has a blue ground covered with multi-coloured birds and arabesques.

From Project Gutenberg

The door is formed of three stones, two upright, and a cross-stone, forming a soffit.

From Project Gutenberg