Definition of cupola
1a : a rounded vault resting on a usually circular base and forming a roof or a ceilingb : 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
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Origin and Etymology of cupola
Italian, from Latin cupula, diminutive of cupa tub
First Known Use: 1549
Other Railroad Terms
CUPOLA Defined for English Language Learners
cupola
playDefinition of cupola for English Language Learners
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: a rounded roof or part of a roof
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: a small structure that is built on top of a roof
CUPOLA Defined for Kids
Learn More about cupola
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Spanish Central: Translation of cupola Nglish: Translation of cupola for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of cupola for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cupola
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