trilithon

American  

[trahy-lith-on, trahy-luh-thon] / traɪˈlɪθ ɒn, ˈtraɪ ləˈθɒn /

Also trilith

noun

1. a prehistoric structure consisting of two upright stones supporting a horizontal stone.

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trilithon British  

/ traɪˈlɪθɒn, ˈtraɪlɪθ, ˈtraɪlɪˌθɒn, traɪˈlɪθɪk /

noun

1. a structure consisting of two upright stones with a third placed across the top, such as those of Stonehenge

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Other Word Forms

• trilithic adjective

Etymology

Origin of trilithon

1730–40; < Greek trílithon, neuter of trílithos having three stones. See tri-, -lith

Example Sentences

Here a trilithon lintel is being replaced following the re-erection of Stones 6 and 7, and their setting in concrete.

From BBC • Jul. 21, 2015

He walked backwards and forwards in front of the trilithon.

From A Changed Man; and other tales by Hardy, Thomas

In the second place, the cross-stone of the Tongan trilithon is mortised much more deeply into the uprights than are the cross-stones at Stonehenge.

From The Belief in Immortality and the Worship of the Dead Vol. II by Frazer, James George, Sir

He walked once round the trilithon, and next advanced towards the clump concealing the hut, the moonlight shining full upon his face and revealing him to be the Duke. 

From A Changed Man; and other tales by Hardy, Thomas

But the trilithon stood up white as ever; and, crossing the intervening sward, the steward fancifully placed his mouth against the stone. 

From A Changed Man; and other tales by Hardy, Thomas