pediment

ped·i·ment

noun \ˈpe-də-mənt\

Definition of PEDIMENT

1

: a triangular space that forms the gable of a low-pitched roof and that is usually filled with relief sculpture in classical architecture; also : a similar form used as a decoration

2

: a broad gently sloping bedrock surface with low relief that is situated at the base of a steeper slope and is usually thinly covered with alluvial gravel and sand

— ped·i·men·tal \ˌpe-də-ˈmen-t^əl\ adjective

— ped·i·ment·ed \ˈpe-də-ˌmen-təd\ adjective

Origin of PEDIMENT

alteration of obsolete English periment, probably alteration of English pyramid

First Known Use: 1664

Other Architecture Terms

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

Rhymes with PEDIMENT

sediment