architectonic

American  

[ahr-ki-tek-ton-ik] / ˌɑr kɪ tɛkˈtɒn ɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to the principles of architecture.

2. resembling architecture, especially in its highly organized manner or technique of structure.

   the architectonic perfection of his new novel.

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architectonic British  

/ ˌɑːkɪtɛkˈtɒnɪk /

adjective

1. denoting, relating to, or having architectural qualities

2. metaphysics of or relating to the systematic classification of knowledge

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Other Word Forms

• nonarchitectonic
  adjective
• architectonically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of architectonic

1635–45; < Latin architectonicus < Greek architektonikós of, belonging to architecture. See archi-, tectonic

Example Sentences

But he is best known for his inimitable, Surrealist pictures featuring skeletal, architectonic figures—merging humans, animals, foliage, totems and signs—which, though indecipherable, are instantly recognizable.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 31, 2026

Katie Dell Kaufman’s work is also geometric, and sometimes incorporates 3D architectonic forms that give the pieces literal depth.

From Washington Post • Nov. 25, 2022

"A monumental architectonic work, with dimensions comparable to those of the National Mall, in Washington, D.C.," wrote the New Yorker in 2016.

From Salon • Oct. 25, 2022

This included a site-specific land piece by prominent African American sculptor Maren Hassinger, as well as a pair of architectonic installations by Afro Cuban artist Alexandre Arrechea.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2022

Let that not be held too much against him, for many an English dramatist, like almost every English novelist, is weak in the architectonic qualities of his work.

From Irish Plays and Playwrights by Weygandt, Cornelius