architrave

noun

ar·​chi·​trave ˈär-kə-ˌtrāv How to pronounce architrave (audio)
1
: the lowest division of an entablature resting in classical architecture immediately on the capital of the column see column illustration
2
: the molding around a rectangular opening (such as a door)

Examples of architrave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Drench a Room in Color Paint the whole room lavender, walls, doors, architraves, fireplaces, and all; the effect is brilliantly bold and ultra-contemporary, as evidenced by Sawyers’ Dupont Circle project. Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 May 2023 The entire government believes that school is a fundamental architrave of our society. Irene Dominioni, Forbes, 20 Apr. 2021 The 59-foot-high structure, topped with an architrave, is made from marble from Mount Pentelicus, also used for the Parthenon. History Magazine, 3 Dec. 2020

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'architrave.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from Old Italian, from archi- + trave beam, from Latin trab-, trabs — more at thorp

First Known Use

1563, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of architrave was in 1563

Dictionary Entries Near architrave

Cite this Entry

“Architrave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/architrave. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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