entablature

[ en-tab-luh-cher, -choor ]

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.

entablature

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of entablature¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of entablature¹

C17: from French, from Italian intavolatura something put on a table, hence, something laid flat, from tavola table, from Latin tabula table

Example Sentences

We see great thickness of columns, a fitting proportion to the capitals, and a beautiful entablature.

From Project Gutenberg

The pillar had twenty flutes, with a capital of half a diameter, supporting the entablature.

From Project Gutenberg

It was a massy stone, rounded, with a comparatively broad base and entablature but not otherwise remarkable.

From Project Gutenberg

On their entablature rose a balustrade, on which were arranged vases of porcelain filled with flowers.

From Project Gutenberg

The entablature was of great simplicity, perhaps because the comparatively rare employment of this order left it undeveloped.

From Project Gutenberg