entasis
[ en-tuh-sis ]
/ ˈɛn tə sɪs /
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noun Architecture.
a slight convexity given to a column or tower, as to correct an optical illusion.
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
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British Dictionary definitions for entasis
entasis
/ (ˈɛntəsɪs) /
noun plural -ses (-siːz)
a slightly convex curve given to the shaft of a column, pier, or similar structure, to correct the illusion of concavity produced by a straight shaft
Also called: entasia (ɛnˈteɪzɪə) physiol an involuntary or spasmodic muscular contraction
Word Origin for entasis
C18: from Greek, from enteinein to stretch tight, from teinein to stretch
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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