pediment

noun

ped·​i·​ment ˈpe-də-mənt 

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

pedimental

ˌpe-də-ˈmen-tᵊl 

adjective

pedimented

ˈpe-də-ˌmen-təd 

adjective

Examples of pediment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Many of the home’s original elements remain, including the fireplace, doors, windows, crown molding, baseboards, and pediments. —Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 22 Aug. 2025

The portico appears to be a shallower version of the original by James Hoban — the one with the triangular pediment on the house’s north side, not the rounded one on the south. —Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 1 Aug. 2025

Looky-loo tourists with selfie sticks constantly stream past the white-on-white high-Victorian façade of pediments, pilasters, and cast iron. —Kevin West, Travel + Leisure, 16 July 2025

The front could be mistaken for a courthouse or temple, with rectangular columns holding up a triangular pediment, all of which marked the entrance to what was once called Eagles Hall. —Blake Nelson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

alteration of obsolete English periment, probably alteration of English pyramid

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for pediment

• sediment
• impediment

Kids Definition

pediment

noun

ped·​i·​ment ˈped-ə-mənt 

: a triangular space forming the gable of a roof in classic architecture