edifice

noun

ed·​i·​fice ˈe-də-fəs 

1

: building

especially : a large or massive structure

2

: a large abstract structure

… holds together the social edifice …

—R. H. Tawney

Synonyms of edifice

• tower
• cathedral
• structure

Examples of edifice in a Sentence

a magnificent edifice with a domed ceiling

the U.S. Capitol is one of our nation's most impressive edifices

Recent Examples on the Web

Can that gratification be found in supporting and maintaining an edifice that has been erected by others? —Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026

There were fewer speeches and more musical performances than the norm at the typical dedications of presidential edifices. —Susan Page, USA Today, 18 June 2026

Glass and steel edifices sprang up in cities around the country, and brought with them the heyday of downtowns. —Luis Melecio-Zambrano, Mercury News, 10 June 2026

In the years since, visitors along Idaho Street in Boise have seen few signs of life from the tan edifice between Capitol Boulevard and Eighth Street. —Darin Oswald, Idaho Statesman, 3 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

edifice

noun

ed·​i·​fice ˈed-ə-fəs 

: building sense 1

especially : a large or impressive building (as a church)