modillion

[moh-dil-yuhn, muh-]

noun

Architecture.

1. an ornamental cantilever beneath the corona or similar member of a cornice, stringcourse, etc.

modillion

/ məˈdɪljən /

noun

1. architect one of a set of ornamental brackets under a cornice, esp as used in the Corinthian order Compare mutule

Word History and Origins

Origin of modillion¹

1555–65; < Italian modiglione < Vulgar Latin *mutiliōnem, variant of *mūtuliōnem, accusative of *mūtuliō. See mutule, -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of modillion¹

C16: via French from Italian modiglione, probably from Vulgar Latin mutiliō (unattested), from Latin mūtulus _mutule

Example Sentences

The Michigan State Capitol Commission decided Tuesday to make available about 100 modillions, which are ornamental blocks or brackets.

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For all that, the style of the original building may be said to be Transitional, with Georgian details, like modillions in the cornice.

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Here, as in the great southern porch, the classic nature of the details is remarkable, the pilasters are all fluted, and the modillion and dentil, derived from Roman models, exist throughout.

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Detail of the cornice and its modillions carved with human heads.

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The flat walls rarely had a real projecting entablature; the ends of joists were simulated by cornices resting on consoles or modillions; the architrave and the frieze were only a painted effect.

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