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flying buttress

noun

Definition of flying buttress

:a masonry structure that typically consists of a straight inclined bar carried on an arch and a solid pier or buttress against which it abuts and that receives the thrust of a roof or vault

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First Known Use of flying buttress

1669

FLYING BUTTRESS Defined for English Language Learners

flying buttress

noun

Definition of flying buttress for English Language Learners

  • : a structure that supports a wall or building from the outside

Learn More about flying buttress

  1. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about flying buttress

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