gable

ga·ble

noun \ˈgā-bəl\

Definition of GABLE

1

a : the vertical triangular end of a building from cornice or eaves to ridge

b : the similar end of a gambrel roof

c : the end wall of a building

2

: a triangular part or structure

— ga·bled \-bəld\ adjective

Illustration of GABLE

Origin of GABLE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, probably from Medieval Latin gabulum gibbet, of Celtic origin; akin to Old Irish gabul forked stick

First Known Use: 14th century

Other Architecture Terms

buttress, casita, cornice, fanlight, garret, lintel, parapet, pilaster, plinth

Rhymes with GABLE

able, Babel, Bebel, cable, fable, Froebel, label, sable, stable, table

Ga·ble

biographical name \ˈgā-bəl\

Definition of GABLE

(William) Clark 1901–1960 Am. actor

gable

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Triangular section formed by a roof with two slopes, extending from the eaves to the ridge where the two slopes meet. It may be miniaturized over a dormer window or entranceway. If the gable end projects above the roof level to form a parapet, the edge is often trimmed to form an ornamental silhouette (e.g., curved or stepped), as in Dutch town houses of the 16th and 17th centuries. In Asia, gables often feature projecting roof tiles and grotesque sculptures of animals at the ridge and eaves.