How Do You Spell FLYING BUTTRESS?

Pronunciation: [flˈa͡ɪɪŋ bˈʌtɹəs] (IPA)

Flying buttress is a term used in architecture to describe a supporting structure that is attached to the exterior of a building. The word is spelled with a silent "g" at the beginning, which is why it is often mispronounced as "flying but-tress". The correct pronunciation is /ˈflaɪɪŋ ˈbʌtrɪs/, with the emphasis on the first syllable and the second syllable pronounced like "buttress". This unique spelling and pronunciation make it an interesting word to use and add to one's vocabulary.

FLYING BUTTRESS Meaning and Definition

1. A flying buttress refers to an architectural element primarily used in Gothic architecture, which aims to provide additional structural support to the walls of a building, such as a cathedral or church. Essentially, it is an exterior, arched support system that helps counter the lateral thrust exerted by the roof or vaulted ceiling, redirecting it away from the main walls. Traditionally, flying buttresses are composed of an arch or half-arch that extends from a solid, vertical pier connected to the wall's exterior. These arches typically begin at the height of the vaulted ceilings, carrying the load of the roof or ceiling down and away from the structure they support.

   The main purpose of a flying buttress is to distribute the weight of the upper walls and roof outward, ensuring stability and preventing the walls from collapsing due to the strain. By transferring the lateral forces to freestanding piers or vertical supports, these structures effectively reduce the stress on the main walls, allowing for the inclusion of taller and more grandiose elements in construction. Additionally, flying buttresses create space for large stained-glass windows and intricate sculptural decorations, characteristic of Gothic architecture.

   Overall, flying buttresses demonstrate the innovative engineering and aesthetic beauty of Gothic architecture while fulfilling a vital structural function, offering both support and embellishment to the magnificent structures they grace.

2. In arch., a curved brace or half arch for strengthening the part of a building which rises considerably above the rest.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for FLYING BUTTRESS

• dlying buttress
• clying buttress
• vlying buttress
• glying buttress
• tlying buttress
• rlying buttress
• fkying buttress
• fpying buttress
• foying buttress
• flting buttress
• flging buttress
• flhing buttress
• fluing buttress
• fl7ing buttress
• fl6ing buttress
• flyung buttress
• flyjng buttress
• flykng buttress
• flyong buttress

Etymology of FLYING BUTTRESS

The word "flying buttress" has a fascinating etymology.

The term "buttress" comes from the Old French word "buter", which means "to thrust against". It was used to refer to any architectural structure that supported or reinforced a wall. The Old French term ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "but-, butan", meaning "outside" or "in front of".

The word "flying" in "flying buttress" refers to the way these particular buttresses appear to "fly" through the air, as they are detached from the main wall and supported by an arch or a series of arches.

The phrase "flying buttress" itself is a translation of the French term "arc-boutant".

Similar spelling words for FLYING BUTTRESS

• flying lemur,
• flying reptile,
• flying carpet,
• flying start,
• flying lizard,
• flying dragon,
• flying bridge,
• flying colors,
• flying opossum,
• flying robin,
• flying marmot,
• flying horse,
• flying mouse,
• Flying Colours,
• flying saucer,
• flying squirrel.