corbel

¹cor·bel

noun \ˈkȯr-bəl\

Definition of CORBEL

: an architectural member that projects from within a wall and supports a weight; especially : one that is stepped upward and outward from a vertical surface

Illustration of CORBEL

Origin of CORBEL

Middle English, from Middle French, from diminutive of corp raven, from Latin corvus — more at raven

First Known Use: 15th century

Rhymes with CORBEL

corbeil, warble

²corbel

transitive verb

corbeled or corbelledcorbel·ing or corbel·ling

Definition of CORBEL

: to furnish with or make into a corbel

First Known Use of CORBEL

1843

corbel

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Block or brick partially embedded in a wall, with one end projecting out from the face. The weight of added masonry above counterbalances the cantilever and keeps the block from falling out of the wall. Corbeling often occurs over several courses, with each block or brick overhanging the one below so as to resemble a set of inverted steps. The form may be continuous, as in a corbeled arch, or a series of separate brackets, as on a medieval battlement. Corbeling was used extensively before the development of true arches and vaults.