Definitions

from The Century Dictionary.

  • noun The entire foundation of an ancient temple, including the stereobate and the stylobate.

from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

  • noun In classical Greek architecture, the platform of (usually three) levels upon which the superstructure of the building is erected, typically forming a series of steps.

Etymologies

from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License

Ancient Greek

Support

Help support Wordnik (and make this page ad-free) by adopting the word crepidoma.

Examples

  • There are several points of agreement between the two: in each the columns rest on a stepped base, called the crepidoma, the uppermost step of which is the stylobate; in each the shaft of the column tapers from the lower to the upper end, is channeled or fluted vertically, and is surmounted by a projecting member called a capital; in each the entablature consists of three members -- architrave, frieze, and cornice.

    A History of Greek Art Frank Bigelow Tarbell 1886

  • The typical Greek temple stood alone on a broad foundation platform, built on all sides in terraces, which is called the crepidoma.

    The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 14: Simony-Tournon 1840-1916 1913

Comments

Log in or sign up to get involved in the conversation. It's quick and easy.

  • The jewels of Picasso's Paloma

    Are famous in Paris and Roma.

    Does she feel any guilt

    That her house is built

    On Pablo's revered crepidoma?

    April 2, 2016