pilaster

/pi'læstə/

Thân thiện

A classical building features a row of pilasters along its facade.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A rectangular column that usually projects about a third of its width from the wall to which it is attached: A pilaster is a vertical, rectangular architectural feature that looks like a flattened column. It is attached to a wall and serves a decorative or structural purpose, often to break up a flat wall surface or to frame a doorway or window.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The classical facade was adorned with Corinthian pilasters.
  • A simple pilaster framed each side of the grand entrance.
  • The architect used pilasters to add depth and visual interest to the otherwise plain wall.

Advanced Usage

• "Engaged pilaster": A pilaster that is fully attached to the wall, as opposed to a freestanding column.

  • The engaged pilasters along the hallway created a rhythmic pattern.

• "Fluted pilaster": A pilaster with vertical grooves carved into its surface.

  • The fluted pilasters were characteristic of the Neoclassical style.

Variants and Related Words

• Pilastered (adj): Describing a wall or facade that is furnished with pilasters.

  • The pilastered front of the building gave it a stately appearance.

• Pilaster strip or Lesene (n): A shallow, flat pilaster-like feature with little or no projection, common in Romanesque architecture.

  • The church's exterior was decorated with simple pilaster strips.

Synonyms

• Engaged column: A round column that is partially embedded in a wall. (Note: A pilaster is typically rectangular and flat-faced, while an engaged column is round.)
• Buttress: A structure built against a wall to strengthen or support it. (Note: A buttress is primarily structural, while a pilaster is often decorative.)

Related Phrases

• "Pilaster capital": The decorated top part of a pilaster.

  • The intricate carvings on the pilaster capital were restored.

• "Pilaster base": The bottom part or foundation of a pilaster.

  • The pilaster base was made of solid marble.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a rectangular column that usually projects about a third of its width from the wall to which it is attached