architrave

[ ahr-ki-treyv ]

noun

, Architecture.

1. the lowermost member of a classical entablature, resting originally upon columns.
2. a molded or decorated band framing a panel or an opening, especially a rectangular one, as of a door or window.

architrave

/ ˈɑːkɪˌtreɪv /

noun

1. the lowest part of an entablature that bears on the columns
2. a moulding around a doorway, window opening, etc

Other Words From

• archi·traval adjective
• archi·traved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of architrave¹

1555–65; Middle French < Italian; archi-, trave ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of architrave¹

C16: via French from Italian, from archi- + trave beam, from Latin trabs

Example Sentences

The horizontal lines of the architrave and cornice predominate over the vertical lines of the columns.

From Project Gutenberg

The architrave has the height of one half of the thickness of a column.

From Project Gutenberg

On the capitals of the pillars there runs all round a stately architrave and cornice, rarely carved.

From Project Gutenberg

Eight porphyry columns support an antique architrave; and eight smaller columns of marble rise from this and support the dome.

From Project Gutenberg

This Francesco made an architrave-ornament running downward from above, which is wrong according to the rules of architecture.

From Project Gutenberg