How Do You Spell PENDENTIVE?

Pronunciation: [pɛndˈɛntɪv] (IPA)

Pendentive is spelled /ˈpɛndəntɪv/, with the stress on the second syllable. This word is commonly used in architecture to describe the decorative curved triangles that support the dome of a building. The word originated in the 16th century from the Latin word "pendens," meaning "hanging." The spelling of the word is straightforward, with each syllable pronounced clearly in the phonetic transcription. Accurate spelling is essential for effective communication, and the IPA notation helps to ensure that the word is spelled correctly.

PENDENTIVE Meaning and Definition

1. Pendentive is a term used in architecture to describe a curved triangular architectural feature that permits the transitioning from a rectangular base to a circular dome or a polygonal dome. It is a structural element that is typically employed to support and distribute the weight of the dome evenly, while enabling it to seamlessly merge with the supporting structure.

   The pendentive is composed of concave curved surfaces that converge at the top, forming a triangular or quadrilateral shape. It is commonly found over the corners of a rectangular or polygonal architectural base. By deploying pendentives, architects are able to create a stable transition from the base to the dome, effectively bridging the gap between the two architectural elements.

   This architectural technique was widely popularized during the Byzantine and Renaissance periods, and can be seen in numerous religious and monumental structures. Pendentives provide both structural support and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the architecture. Furthermore, pendentives allow for the inclusion of additional architectural features such as windows, frescoes, or decorated ceilings within the dome.

   Overall, pendentives demonstrate the ingenuity and artistic capabilities of architects and engineers, as they provide an elegant and functional solution for the utilization of domes in architectural designs.

2. Applied to the portion of a vault placed between the arches of a dome, usually enriched with sculpture.

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

Common Misspellings for PENDENTIVE

• oendentive
• lendentive
• 0endentive
• pwndentive
• psndentive
• pdndentive
• prndentive
• p4ndentive
• p3ndentive
• pebdentive
• pemdentive
• pejdentive
• pehdentive
• pensentive
• penxentive
• pencentive
• penfentive
• penrentive
• peneentive
• pendwntive
• Pendantive
• Pendentily
• Pendentev
• Pendentevy
• Pendantine

Etymology of PENDENTIVE

The word "pendentive" comes from the Latin word "pendere", which means "to hang" or "to suspend". In architecture, a pendentive is a curved triangular construction that enables the transition from a square or rectangular space to a circular or spherical dome. It appears to be "hanging" from above, hence the use of the term pendentive. The term was first used in English in the early 16th century.

Plural form of PENDENTIVE is PENDENTIVES