pyramidion

American  

[pir-uh-mid-ee-uhn, -on] / ˌpɪr əˈmɪd i ən, -ˌɒn /

noun

plural

pyramidia

1. a miniature pyramid, as at the apex of an obelisk.

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Etymology

Origin of pyramidion

1830–40; < New Latin, equivalent to pȳramid- pyramid + -ion diminutive suffix < Greek

Example Sentences

The worst damage was at the top, at the four-sided pyramidion.

From Reuters • Jul. 9, 2012

On the pyramidion of the obelisk he is represented by a sphinx presenting gifts of water and wine to Tum, the setting sun, a solar deity worshipped at Heliopolis.

From Cleopatra's Needle A History of the London Obelisk, with an Exposition of the Hieroglyphics by King, James

Of the pyramidion, scarcely any traces remain; but the mastaba is intact.

From Manual of Egyptian Archaeology and Guide to the Study of Antiquities in Egypt by Maspero, G. (Gaston)

The base of the Monument is 55 feet square, the top will be 34 feet 6 inches square, and it will be crowned with a pyramidion, or roof, 50 feet in height.

From History of the Washington National Monument and of the Washington National Monument Society by Harvey, Frederick Loviad

The summit of the obelisk, known as the pyramidion, from its resemblance to a small pyramid, is here represented by a small triangle.

From Cleopatra's Needle A History of the London Obelisk, with an Exposition of the Hieroglyphics by King, James