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cupola


cu·po·la

noun \ˈkyü-pə-lə, ÷-ˌlō\

Definition of CUPOLA

1
a : a rounded vault resting on a usually circular base and forming a roof or a ceiling b : a small structure built on top of a roof
2
: a vertical cylindrical furnace for melting iron in the foundry that has tuyeres and tapping spouts near the bottom
3
: a raised observation post in the roof of a railroad caboose
cu·po·laed \-ləd, ÷-ˌlōd\ adjective

Origin of CUPOLA

Italian, from Latin cupula, diminutive of cupa tub
First Known Use: 1549

Other Railroad Terms

cowcatcher, gauge, vestibule, yard

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