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atlantes

atlantes

9.9
A carved male figure that supports a roof or balcony
  • noun
  • /ˈæt.læntiːz/
  • Specialized
translation icon : atlantes
  • Ancient temples often featured atlantes supporting the roof of the portico.

Examples

  • The museum's facade is decorated with a row of atlantes that add a classical touch.

  • The grand entrance was guarded by two imposing atlantes carved from marble.

  • Look at those atlantes!

  • The atlantes are impressive.

  • The ancient temple featured several atlantes that served as decorative supports for the roof.

  • In classical architecture, atlantes were often used instead of columns to add artistic flair.

  • The museum displayed a stunning sculpture of an atlantes that stood proudly at the entrance.

Synonyms

caryatid
vsatlantes
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A column shaped like a standing woman wearing long cloth that supports a building

uses male figures rather than draped female ones for structural support
atlas
vsatlantes
  • Specialized
9.9

A carved man used like a column to support part of a building

refers to multiple such figures used as supporting columns

Surface Forms

atlantes plural

Morphology

atlantes = atlas (transparent) = atlas + es

Plural formed regularly from the architectural noun 'atlas'; morphological relation is straightforward.

Etymology

Atlantes comes from the Greek giant Atlas, who was said to 'hold up' the sky. Carved male figures used as supports are called atlantes because they act like human pillars that 'hold' the building just as Atlas held the sky.