astragal

[ as-truh-guhl ]

noun

, Architecture, Furniture.

1. a small convex molding cut into the form of a string of beads. Compare bead and reel.
2. a plain convex molding; bead.
3. a molding attached to one or both meeting stiles of a pair of double doors in order to prevent drafts.

astragal

/ ˈæstrəɡəl /

noun

1. architect
   1. Also calledbead a small convex moulding, usually with a semicircular cross section
   2. a moulding having the form of a string of beads
2. carpentry a glazing bar, esp in a bookcase
3. anatomy the ankle or anklebone

Word History and Origins

Origin of astragal¹

1555–65; < Latin astragalus < Greek astrágalos a vertebra, the huckle-bone, a molding, a kind of vetch; in plural, dice (i.e., huckle-bones)

Word History and Origins

Origin of astragal¹

C17: from Latin astragalus, from Greek astragalos anklebone, hence, small round moulding

Example Sentences

Foundation holding the bronze astragals in place had also started to fail.

From Washington Times

A small molding, like the astragal, but smaller; a bead.

From Project Gutenberg

In glazing, the greater the surface of glass, and the less space occupied by rafters and astragals as well as overlaps, the greater the admission of light.

From Project Gutenberg

The remarkable Roman arches, massive buttresses and blind doorway, framed by two primitive capitals with a wreath-shaped astragal, are apparently vestiges of constructions of an earlier date than those of Abbot Thierry.

From Project Gutenberg

A cavetto molding, enriched with a bead and reel astragal and another drilled rope torus, outlines the dark marble facings about the fireplace opening.

From Project Gutenberg