PEDESTAL Meaning and
Definition
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Pedestal is a noun that refers to a raised platform or base on which a statue, column, or other object of significance is placed. It is typically used to elevate the object, bringing attention to it and giving it a position of prominence. The term originated from the Latin word "pedestalis," meaning "footstool" or "base," and is often associated with classical architecture.
A pedestal is designed to provide stability and support for the object it holds, ensuring it remains visible and protected. It can be made from a variety of materials including stone, marble, wood, or metal, depending on the intended purpose and aesthetic preferences. It may have a simple and functional design, or it can be ornately decorated and embellished.
Beyond its architectural and artistic applications, pedestal can also carry a metaphorical meaning. In this sense, it can represent a platform or position of high regard, honor, or authority that someone is elevated to. The term is often used to describe the high regards people hold for someone, idolizing or idealizing them.
To sum up, a pedestal is a raised platform or base that supports and elevates an important object, often a statue or column. Whether in the physical or metaphoric sense, the term signifies prominence, importance, and reverence.
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The base or substructure of a column or statue; a permanent base on which to place anything.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for PEDESTAL *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for PEDESTAL
Etymology of PEDESTAL
The word "pedestal" originated from the Latin word "pedestalis", which means "footstool" or "base". It is derived from the Latin word "pes", meaning "foot". The term was eventually adopted into Middle French as "piedestal" and then entered the English language as "pedestal" in the 16th century.
Idioms with the word PEDESTAL
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put sb on a pedestal
The idiom "put sb on a pedestal" means to greatly admire or idealize someone, often to the point of considering them perfect or infallible. It suggests the act of elevating someone's status or attributes to an unrealistic or exaggerated level.
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on a pedestal
The idiom "on a pedestal" refers to the act of placing someone or something in an elevated, highly regarded, or idolized position, often without acknowledging their faults or flaws.
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put sb/sth on a pedestal
The idiom "put someone or something on a pedestal" means to regard or treat someone or something with admiration, respect, or high esteem. It often implies that the person or object is considered to be perfect or flawless, overlooking any faults or imperfections they may have. It can also suggest an excessive or unrealistic level of admiration or expectation placed upon someone or something.
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put on a pedestal
The idiom "put on a pedestal" means to highly admire or idealize someone, considering them to be exceptionally great or perfect. It signifies elevating someone to a position of reverence or admiration, often overlooking their flaws or shortcomings.
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knock (one) off (one's) pedestal
The idiom "knock (one) off (one's) pedestal" means to undermine or diminish someone's reputation, power, or high regard by exposing their flaws, mistakes, or shortcomings. It implies that the person was previously esteemed, respected, or put on a figurative pedestal, but that their reputation or standing has been tarnished or diminished due to negative revelations or actions.
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knock sb off their pedestal
The idiom "knock sb off their pedestal" means to cause someone to lose their high status, respect, or admiration by revealing their flaws, mistakes, or negative qualities. It suggests shattering the image of someone who was previously idolized or held in high regard.
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knock sb off his/her pedestal
The idiom "knock somebody off his/her pedestal" means to figuratively cause someone to lose their high status, reputation, or self-importance, often through exposure of their flaws, mistakes, or shortcomings. It refers to a situation where an individual is metaphorically pushed down from the elevated position they were previously held in by others.
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knock someone off their pedestal
The idiom "knock someone off their pedestal" means to undermine or diminish someone's high status, reputation, or self-importance. It refers to the act of challenging or exposing the flaws, mistakes, or limitations of someone who was once highly regarded or seen as superior.
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knock somebody off their perch/pedestal
To knock somebody off their perch/pedestal means to undermine or overthrow someone who is in a position of power, authority, or superiority. It refers to dethroning or humbling someone who is perceived to be arrogant or self-important.
Similar spelling words for PEDESTAL
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