PYRAMIDION Meaning and
Definition
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A pyramidion is a specific architectural feature of ancient Egyptian and Mesoamerican pyramids that typically takes the form of a small pyramid-shaped capstone or finial. Derived from the Greek word "pyramis" meaning pyramid, the term "pyramidion" literally translates to "little pyramid."
This ornamental element is situated at the topmost point of a pyramid, crowning the structure. The pyramidion is traditionally made of durable materials such as stone or metal, and its design commonly aligns with the geometric shape of the pyramid it adorns. Its primary purpose lies in symbolizing the completion and perfection of the pyramid, as it represents the apex or pinnacle of the structure.
Significantly, pyramidions often display religious and symbolic significance in ancient cultures. In Egyptian architecture, the pyramidion was associated with the sun god and embodied divine power and eternity. Its gleaming surface was frequently adorned with inscriptions or carvings detailing religious texts, royal names, or scenes depicting deities. Similar symbolism is observed in Mesoamerican civilizations, where the pyramidion embodied the sacredness of the temple-pyramid it crowned, outlining its link with divinity and cosmic forces.
The pyramidion's architectural and symbolic importance holds great cultural value, highlighting the spiritual and hierarchical aspects of ancient civilizations. In modern times, the term "pyramidion" may also be used metaphorically to refer to any crowning element or pinnacle that represents the apex, ultimate achievement, or completion of a structure, system, or endeavor.
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In arch., the small flat pyramid formed on the top of an obelisk.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PYRAMIDION
- pyramidan
- pyramidin
- oyramidion
- lyramidion
- -yramidion
- 0yramidion
- ptramidion
- pgramidion
- phramidion
- puramidion
- p7ramidion
- p6ramidion
- pyeamidion
- pydamidion
- pyfamidion
- pytamidion
- py5amidion
- py4amidion
- pyrzmidion
- pyrsmidion
Etymology of PYRAMIDION
The word "pyramidion" has its etymology from the Ancient Greek word "pyramis" (πυραμίς). The Greek word was derived from the Egyptian word "peremaa" or "peryaa", meaning "the high" or "the height". In ancient Egypt, the pyramidion referred to the capstone or apex of an Egyptian pyramid. Over time, the word was borrowed by various languages, including English, retaining its meaning as the uppermost part of a pyramid.
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