entablature

American  

[en-tab-luh-cher, -choor] / ɛnˈtæb lə tʃər, -ˌtʃʊər /

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.

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entablature British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of entablature

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

Example Sentences

Jefferson wrote his last letter to Hemings in August 1825, concerned mostly with the roof and interior entablature.

From Washington Post • Apr. 23, 2023

There is an entablature of shingles resting on the board and batten siding, forming the interior walls.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 6, 2021

Bas reliefs on the entablature feature important thinkers such as Booker T. Washington and Frederick Douglass.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2021

Unlike most pillars of the period, the temple’s were not free-standing but demi-columns, 23 by 46 feet, engaged in a continuous curtain wall to support the weight of horizontal architectural detailing that composes the entablature.

From New York Times • Oct. 5, 2020

Unlike the austere walls of the corridor, this room mimicked the architecture of Weep, with columns supporting an ornamental entablature and soaring, fan-vaulted ceiling.

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor