skyscraper

[skahy-skrey-per]

noun

1. a relatively tall building of many stories, especially one for office or commercial use.

2. Architecture.,  a building of exceptional height completely supported by a framework, as of girders, from which the walls are suspended, as opposed to a building supported by load-bearing walls.

skyscraper

/ ˈskaɪˌskreɪpə /

noun

1. a very tall multistorey building

Word History and Origins

Origin of skyscraper¹

First recorded in 1785–95; sky + scraper

Example Sentences

Los Angeles County is refusing to disclose a preliminary report that could explain why officials suggested that the downtown skyscraper it recently purchased to serve as its new headquarters should receive a seismic retrofit.

From Los Angeles Times

Finally, what has been billed as the world's first fully "upcycled skyscraper" makes the final list too.

From BBC

The firm is led by Norman Foster, an English lord perhaps best known for designing a landmark lipstick-like skyscraper in London known as the Gherkin and the hoop-shaped Apple Inc. headquarters in Cupertino, Calif.

From Los Angeles Times

Sir Keir was on home turf for these traditional pre-conference interviews on a skyscraper looming over north London, but his problems lie further afield.

From BBC

Ever since the county of Los Angeles purchased one of downtown L.A.’s tallest skyscrapers, questions have mounted over whether the building could be vulnerable to major damage in the event of a massive earthquake.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• high-rise