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

The modern extension in the rear of the 19th-century main villa is an elegantly spartan affair that somehow complements the 19th-century edifice and brings in the surrounding foliage. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Mar. 2026

America’s appreciation for the arts, this edifice announced, was responsible, mature. —Sean Williams, Harpers Magazine, 24 Feb. 2026

The entire edifice of the American Revolution was built upon this premise. —Sandeep Gopalan, Baltimore Sun, 23 Feb. 2026

The blaring, martial horn intro that marked Superman's arrival on the scene carries with it the entire edifice of American nostalgia. —Alex Galbraith, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Feb. 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)