entablature

American  

[en-tab-luh-cher, -choor] / ɛnˈtæb lə tʃər, -ˌtʃʊər /

noun

Architecture.

1. the entire construction of a classical temple or the like between the columns and the eaves, usually composed of an architrave, a frieze, and a cornice.

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entablature British  

/ ɛnˈtæblətʃə /

noun

1. the part of a classical temple above the columns, having an architrave, a frieze, and a cornice

2. any construction of similar form

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Etymology

Origin of entablature

1605–15; < Middle French < Italian intavolatura; in- ², table, -ate ¹, -ure

Example Sentences

Jefferson wrote his last letter to Hemings in August 1825, concerned mostly with the roof and interior entablature.

From Washington Post • Apr. 23, 2023

There is an entablature of shingles resting on the board and batten siding, forming the interior walls.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 6, 2021

Bas reliefs on the entablature feature important thinkers such as Booker T. Washington and Frederick Douglass.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2021

It makes use of columns, pilasters, entablature and pediment, “and it’s known for its general symmetry,” he added.

From Washington Times • Aug. 24, 2015

He learns the endless terms, the vocabulary that classifies the details of ancient buildings, writing them on separate index cards and making illustrations on the back: architrave, entablature, tympanum, voussoir.

From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri