portico

noun

por·​ti·​co ˈpȯr-ti-ˌkō How to pronounce portico (audio)
plural porticoes or porticos
Synonyms of porticonext
: a colonnade or covered ambulatory especially in classical architecture and often at the entrance of a building

Illustration of portico

Illustration of portico

Examples of portico in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The architect revised plans slightly since the last commission meeting, removing stairs that would have extended from the ballroom’s south portico. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 2 Apr. 2026 Columns along the portico will block interior views and natural daylight. Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Mar. 2026 The exhibition is housed in the porticoes of the Palestra Grande, located opposite the Amphitheatre. ABC News, 12 Mar. 2026 Later that night, at the rehearsal dinner, Ann goes rogue during her toast to make these same points to a portico filled with Kennedys. Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for portico

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin porticus — more at porch

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of portico was in 1607

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Cite this Entry

“Portico.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/portico. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

portico

noun
por·​ti·​co ˈpōrt-i-ˌkō How to pronounce portico (audio)
ˈpȯrt-
plural porticoes or porticos
: a row of columns supporting a roof at the entrance of a building

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