cyma recta

[ rek-tuh ]

noun

, Architecture.

1. a cyma whose concave part projects beyond the convex part.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cyma recta¹

1695–1705; < New Latin: literally, straight cyma

Example Sentences

A Glossary for Architectural Rubberneckers YOU can be an insufferable know-it-all with architectural terminology: “Oh, that’s not a cyma recta, it’s a cyma reversa.”

From New York Times

When the concave part is uppermost, it is called a cyma recta; but if the convex portion is at the top, it is called a cyma reversa.

From Project Gutenberg

The cornice is of grey marble with a 'cyma recta' section, and is carved with an upright leaf.

From Project Gutenberg