soffit

American  

[sof-it] / ˈsɒf ɪt /

noun

Architecture.

1. the underside of an architectural feature, as a beam, arch, ceiling, vault, or cornice.

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soffit British  

/ ˈsɒfɪt /

noun

1. the underside of a part of a building or a structural component, such as an arch, beam, stair, etc

2. Also called: crown.   vertex.  the upper inner surface of a drain or sewer Compare invert

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Etymology

Origin of soffit

1605–15; < French soffite < Italian soffitto < Vulgar Latin *suffīctus, for Latin suffīxus; suffix

Example Sentences

Hurricanes: One of Chapman-Henderson’s favorite tips is to caulk and brace roof ventilation soffit vents to reduce the amount of water blown into your attic during hurricane-force winds and rain.

From Washington Post • Jan. 3, 2022

Don’t pile insulation around the edges, because that would block the soffit vents.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 21, 2021

He found deteriorating paint, rotting soffit and fascia, a hole in the roof.

From Washington Times • Feb. 22, 2020

A 25-by-11-foot central gallery with a gold-leaf soffit ceiling and two giant bronze centaurs near the main entrance separates the public rooms from the bedrooms and kitchen.

From New York Times • Jan. 20, 2017

The hard, ringing noise from under the soffit, so much unlike any sound to be heard in an earth tunnel, was disturbing.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams