PERIPTERAL Meaning and
Definition
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Peripteral is an adjective that derives from the Greek word "peripteros," meaning "having columns all around." In architecture, peripteral refers to a style or design characterized by having a single row of columns surrounding the entire exterior of a building, typically forming a colonnade. This architectural feature is commonly found in Greek and Roman temples.
A peripteral building usually consists of a rectangular structure with columns lining all four sides. The columns, often featuring elaborate designs and decorations, support an entablature or architrave above them, which in turn supports the roof. The inner space of a peripteral building is usually the cella, which houses the most important part of the structure, such as a statue or sacred object.
The peripteral style was particularly prevalent in ancient Greek temples, with notable examples including the Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Apollo in Delphi. The use of a peripteral design in these structures served both aesthetic and functional purposes. It provided a visually striking appearance, enhancing the grandeur and importance of the building, while also allowing for ample space for worshippers and activities to take place around the exterior.
Today, the term peripteral is still used in architectural discourse to describe structures or designs that follow this distinct column arrangement, preserving the classical Greek and Roman influence.
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Winged all round; surrounded by a single range of columns.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PERIPTERAL
- oeripteral
- leripteral
- -eripteral
- 0eripteral
- pwripteral
- psripteral
- pdripteral
- prripteral
- p4ripteral
- p3ripteral
- peeipteral
- pedipteral
- pefipteral
- petipteral
- pe5ipteral
- pe4ipteral
- perupteral
- perjpteral
- perkpteral
Etymology of PERIPTERAL
The word "peripteral" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "peri" meaning "around" or "surrounding", and "pteron" meaning "wing" or "feather". In ancient Greek architectural terminology, "peripteros" referred to a type of temple or building surrounded by a single row of columns on all sides. Over time, the term "peripteral" has come to be used more broadly in architectural and artistic contexts to describe anything that has a surrounding row or series of columns or pillars.
Similar spelling words for PERIPTERAL
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