PILASTER Meaning and
Definition
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A pilaster is a vertical, rectangular architectural element that protrudes slightly from the face of a wall and imitates or resembles a column. It is usually made of stone, wood, or plaster and is used primarily for decorative purposes rather than providing structural support. Pilasters are typically found on the exterior or interior façades of buildings and are distinguished by their flat or low relief decorative surfaces.
They are commonly characterized by two vertical panels with a shallow, rounded or flat profile, joined by a flat or slightly projecting horizontal panel at their top and bottom. This design creates the illusion of a half-column embedded in the wall surface. Pilasters are often enriched with various architectural motifs such as fluting, scrolling, or other decorative elements that imitate the details found on traditional columns.
Pilasters can be found in various architectural styles, including Classical, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical. They are commonly used to enhance the appearance of doorways, windows, and corners of buildings, providing a sense of rhythm and symmetry to the overall architectural composition.
Overall, pilasters serve as an ornamental feature that adds depth, visual interest, and a touch of grandeur to buildings, while also providing a connection to classical architectural traditions.
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An abnormally prominent linea aspera on the femur, the bone being unusually convex anteriorly.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A square pillar placed on a wall, and partly in it, only showing a fourth or a fifth of its thickness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PILASTER
Etymology of PILASTER
The word pilaster derives from the Latin word pilastrum, which means rectangular pillar or supporting column. In turn, pilastrum originated from the Latin word pila, meaning pillar or column. The term later entered into the Middle French language as pilastre and then into English in the 1560s as pilaster.
Similar spelling words for PILASTER
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