pediment

(ped′i mənt)

noun

a low-pitched gable on the front of some buildings in the Grecian style of architecture
any similar triangular piece used ornamentally, as over a doorway, fireplace, etc.

Origin: altered (after L pes, gen. pedis, foot) < earlier periment, prob. altered < pyramid

Related Forms:

See pediment in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. A wide, low-pitched gable surmounting the façade of a building in the Grecian style.
b. A triangular element, similar to or derivative of a Grecian pediment, used widely in architecture and decoration.
Geology A broad, gently sloping rock surface at the base of a steeper slope, often covered with alluvium, formed primarily by erosion.

Origin:

Origin: Alteration (influenced by Latin pēs, ped-, foot)

Origin: of earlier perement

Origin: , probably alteration of pyramid

Related Forms: