trilithon

American  

[trahy-lith-on, trahy-luh-thon] / traɪˈlɪθ ɒn, ˈtraɪ ləˈθɒn /

Also trilith

noun

1. a prehistoric structure consisting of two upright stones supporting a horizontal stone.

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trilithon British  

/ traɪˈlɪθɒn, ˈtraɪlɪθ, ˈtraɪlɪˌθɒn, traɪˈlɪθɪk /

noun

1. a structure consisting of two upright stones with a third placed across the top, such as those of Stonehenge

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Other Word Forms

• trilithic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of trilithon

1730–40; < Greek trílithon, neuter of trílithos having three stones. See tri-, -lith

Example Sentences

Here a trilithon lintel is being replaced following the re-erection of Stones 6 and 7, and their setting in concrete.

From BBC • Jul. 21, 2015

In the same island is a trilithon consisting of a transverse bar resting on two pillars provided with mortises for its reception.

From Manners and Monuments of Prehistoric Peoples by D'Anvers, N.

It is natural to compare the trilithon of Tongataboo with the famous trilithons of Stonehenge, which it resembles in plan and to which it is comparable in size.

From The Belief in Immortality and the Worship of the Dead Vol. II by Frazer, James George, Sir

It has a rectangular niche to the west containing a fine trilithon with a cover-slab nearly 10 feet long.

From Rough Stone Monuments and Their Builders by Peet, T. Eric (Thomas Eric)

He then went a second time to the hollow behind the trilithon, remaining there nearly a quarter of an hour. 

From A Changed Man; and other tales by Hardy, Thomas