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Glite Dictionary
cyma reversa

cyma reversa

9.9
A decorative edge with an S-shaped curve that has the outer curve above the inner curve
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : cima reversa
  • The architect chose a cyma reversa for the building's cornice.

Examples

  • The console table featured a beautifully carved cyma reversa along its edge.

  • The craftsman demonstrated how to sculpt a cyma reversa for the restoration project.

  • In classical architecture, the cyma reversa is often used for cornice moldings.

  • A cyma reversa adds elegance to classical architecture.

  • In classical architecture, the cyma reversa is often used for cornice moldings.

  • The architect chose a cyma reversa design for the building's elegant roofline.

  • The craftsman demonstrated how to shape a cyma reversa during the workshop.

Synonyms

ogee
vscyma reversa
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A curved decorative edge with an S shape on buildings and furniture

has identical meaning but uses a different traditional name
cyma
vscyma reversa
  • Specialized
9.9

A curved decorative molding with an S-shaped profile on the top edge of a building

is the specific form with the convex curve above the concave

Surface Forms

cyma reversa singular
cyma reversas plural

Morphology

cyma + reversa

The noun 'cyma' already denotes an S-shaped moulding and 'reversa' clearly functions as an adjectival form meaning 'reversed', so the phrase is compositionally interpretable as a reversed cyma (convex above concave). However, 'reversa' is a non‑standard/Latin technical element (not found in the provided dictionary) and the whole term is specialized vocabulary, so predictability for a typical B1 learner is limited; overall this is only partially transparent.

Etymology

Cyma reversa comes from old words: cyma meaning 'wave' and reversa meaning 'turned back'. It describes an S-shaped molding where the outer curve sits above the inner curve, so the name gives a simple picture of a 'reverse wave'.