soffit

American  

[sof-it] / ˈsɒf ɪt /

noun

Architecture.

1. the underside of an architectural feature, as a beam, arch, ceiling, vault, or cornice.

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soffit British  

/ ˈsɒfɪt /

noun

1. the underside of a part of a building or a structural component, such as an arch, beam, stair, etc

2. Also called: crown.   vertex.  the upper inner surface of a drain or sewer Compare invert

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Etymology

Origin of soffit

1605–15; < French soffite < Italian soffitto < Vulgar Latin *suffīctus, for Latin suffīxus; see suffix

Explanation

A soffit is the underside of a part on a building, like a protective covering under the eaves of a house, or the surface of an arch as seen from below. The word soffit traces back to the Latin word suffixus, meaning “fastened below.” So when your dad asks you to help replace the soffit, you know you’ll be dealing with the underside of some part of a building. The most common type of soffit is the one you’ll see on the underside of the eaves, running from the outside wall to the outer edge of the roof.

Example Sentences

Extrados.—The exterior curve of an arch, especially the upper curved face A. B is the Intrados or Soffit.

From Carpentry for Boys In a Simple Language, Including Chapters on Drawing, Laying Out Work, Designing and Architecture With 250 Original Illustrations by Zerbe, James Slough