atlantes

Two stone atlantes support the weight of the grand building's entrance.

Definition

1. Noun (plural):
   • Architectural term: "Atlantes" refers to sculpted male figures used as columns or pillars to support an entablature or other architectural structure. They are the male counterparts of caryatids (female figures).

Usage Examples

• (Sculpted male figures functioning as supporting columns.)
• (Male pillar-figures showing physical effort.)

Advanced Usage

• "Atlantes" is the plural form; the singular is "atlas" (though rarely used in this architectural sense).
  • This museum's entrance is guarded by two atlantes. (Two male figures acting as pillars.)

Variants and Related Words

• Atlas (n, singular): a male figure used as a supporting column; also a collection of maps (unrelated meaning).

  • The single atlas on the porch held up the porch roof. (A single male pillar-figure.)

• Caryatid (n): a female figure used as a supporting column (the female counterpart of atlantes).

  • The Erechtheion on the Acropolis has famous caryatids. (Female pillar-figures.)

Synonyms

• Telamon (n): another term for atlantes, especially in classical architecture.
• Male figure column (n): a descriptive phrase for a column shaped like a man.

Related Idioms

• No common idioms exist for "atlantes" due to its highly specialized architectural use.