entasis

[en-tuh-sis]

noun

Architecture.

1. a slight convexity given to a column or tower, as to correct an optical illusion.

entasis

/ ˈɛntəsɪs /

noun

1. 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

2. Also called: entasia. physiol an involuntary or spasmodic muscular contraction

Word History and Origins

Origin of entasis¹

1745–55; < Greek, equivalent to enta- (variant stem of enteínein to stretch tight, equivalent to en- en- ² + teínein to stretch) + -sis -sis

Word History and Origins

Origin of entasis¹

C18: from Greek, from enteinein to stretch tight, from teinein to stretch