edifice

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noun ed·i·fice \ˈe-də-fəs\

: a large and usually impressive building (such as a church or government building)

Full Definition of EDIFICE

1

:  building; especially :  a large or massive structure

2

:  a large abstract structure <holds together the social edifice — R. H. Tawney>

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Examples of EDIFICE

1. a magnificent edifice with a domed ceiling
2. <the U.S. Capitol is one of our nation's most impressive edifices>

Origin of EDIFICE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin aedificium, from aedificare

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to EDIFICE

Synonyms

cathedral, hall, palace, tower

Related Words

construction, erection, structure; castle, château, countryseat, estate, hacienda, manor, manor house, mansion, showplace, villa; mausoleum, memorial, monument