PATRESS Meaning and
Definition
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Patress is a noun that refers to a thin plate or board, usually made of wood or metal, which is affixed to a wall or other surface in order to support or reinforce a structure. Primarily used in architectural and construction contexts, the term describes a vertically oriented decoration piece that is positioned between a bracket and a lintel, or above a pilaster or column, to enhance the aesthetic appeal or structural integrity of a building.
A patress serves several functions, including providing additional support to a protruding feature, such as a shelf or cornice, or acting as a backing for decorative elements like statues, reliefs, or moldings. It can also act as a base or platform for an electrical fixture or outlet, holding them securely in place. Due to their customizable nature, patresses can be found in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and styles, depending on the architectural period and design preferences.
The term "patress" originates from the Old French word "patrasse," which refers to a wooden panel used for boarding a ship's deck or bulkhead. The concept of reinforcing a surface or underpinning a structure has been adapted from naval architecture into the realm of construction and architecture, where patresses play a vital role in both aesthetic and practical aspects of building design.
Etymology of PATRESS
The word "patress" comes from the Old French term "patresse", which as a noun means "a round dish or flat plate", particularly one used as a base or support for a candle or lamp. The Old French term is derived from the Latin word "patella", meaning "shallow dish" or "pan". The Latin term has a similar origin to the Greek word "patella", which also refers to a shallow dish or pan.
