flying buttress

noun

, Architecture.

1. a segmental arch transmitting an outward and downward thrust to a solid buttress that through its inertia transforms the thrust into a vertical one.

flying buttress

noun

1. a buttress supporting a wall or other structure by an arch or part of an arch that transmits the thrust outwards and downwards Also calledarc-boutant

flying buttress

1. An external, arched support for the wall of a church or other building. Flying buttresses were used in many Gothic cathedrals (see also cathedral ); they enabled builders to put up very tall but comparatively thin stone walls, so that much of the wall space could be filled with stained-glass windows. The cathedrals of Chartres and Notre Dame de Paris were built with flying buttresses.

Word History and Origins

Origin of flying buttress¹

First recorded in 1660–70

Example Sentences

The side aisles were covered by a quarter-barrel vaulting that serves the purpose of a continuous flying buttress.

From Project Gutenberg

Beyond, one traced the outlines of pinnacle and flying buttress, slanting roof and beautiful windows.

From Project Gutenberg

A, used for resisting the thrust of an arch, or for ornamentation; B, a flying buttress.

From Project Gutenberg

The Flying Buttress, every day and night, Continues in his long, unwearied flight.

From Project Gutenberg

Every support seemed an accidental and fantastic support; every buttress was a flying buttress.

From Project Gutenberg