surbase

American  

[sur-beys] / ˈsɜrˌbeɪs /

noun

Architecture.

1. a molding above a base, as that immediately above a baseboard, the crowning molding of a pedestal, etc.

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surbase British  

/ ˈsɜːˌbeɪs /

noun

1. the uppermost part, such as a moulding, of a pedestal, base, or skirting Compare subbase

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Other Word Forms

• surbasement
  noun

Etymology

Origin of surbase

First recorded in 1670–80; sur- ¹ + base ¹

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

surbase

In a room so treated the dado becomes virtually a187 continuous pedestal with a base or skirting and a surbase above the die or plane face of the pedestal.

From The Colonial Architecture of Philadelphia by Cousins, Frank

For a final safeguard, Garson searched for and found the telephone bell-box on the surbase below the octagonal window.

From Within the Law by Veiller, Bayard

Unlike the plain dado of the main hall, however, elaborated only by a molded surbase and skirting, a handsome paneled wainscot runs around the staircase hall and up the stairs.

From The Colonial Architecture of Philadelphia by Cousins, Frank

Two squares of faded carpeting of different patterns, covered the middle of the floor, leaving, toward the surbase, a wide, blank margin around them.

From Pierre; or The Ambiguities by Melville, Herman

On the landing dainty little fluted pilasters support the surbase, their fine scale lending much grace and refinement.

From The Colonial Architecture of Philadelphia by Cousins, Frank