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Glite Dictionary
amphiprostyle

amphiprostyle

9.9
Having columns that stand free at the front and back of a building but none along the sides
  • adjective
  • /ˌæmfɪˈprɒstaɪl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : amfiprostyle
  • The ancient temple was designed in the amphiprostyle manner, with columns only at the front and rear.

Examples

  • The ancient temple was designed in the amphiprostyle manner, featuring columns at both the front and back to create a symmetrical look.

  • The architect chose an amphiprostyle layout to emphasize both entrances of the building.

  • Some of the most famous Greek structures are amphiprostyle, giving a balanced appearance to their facades.

  • The ancient temple was built in an amphiprostyle manner.

  • Many Greek temples are amphiprostyle in design.

  • Some of the most famous Greek structures are amphiprostyle, showcasing free-standing columns at their front and rear entrances.

  • The architect chose an amphiprostyle design for the new cultural center, highlighting its two main entrances with impressive columns.

Surface Forms

amphiprostyle positive

Morphology

amphiprostyle = prostyle (semi-transparent) = amphi + prostyle + amphi

Formally regular prefixation of the Greek combining form 'amphi-' ('both') to the specialized term 'prostyle' yields the meaning, but both elements are technical and unfamiliar to average learners.

Etymology

Amphiprostyle comes from the Greek parts amphi- ('both') and prostyle ('columns at the front'). You can see amphi- in familiar words like amphitheatre or amphibian, which also carry the idea of 'both'. So an amphiprostyle building has porches with free-standing columns at both the front and the back, not along the sides.