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Glite Dictionary
entasis

entasis

1 9.9
A slight outward curve in the long part of a column that makes it look straight
  • noun
  • /ɛnˈteɪsɪs/
  • Specialized
: entasis
  • Without entasis, the columns would appear slightly concave to the human eye.

Examples

  • The ancient Greeks perfected entasis to create visually appealing columns in their temples.

  • Modern architects sometimes use entasis to echo classical design in contemporary buildings.

  • The ancient Greeks used entasis to enhance the beauty of their columns.

  • Can you explain the concept of entasis in architecture?

  • Modern architects often incorporate entasis in their designs to create a sense of harmony in their buildings.

  • The ancient Greeks skillfully employed entasis in their columns to counteract the optical illusion of concavity.

  • In classical architecture, entasis is used to give columns a graceful, curved appearance that enhances their visual impact.

Surface Forms

entasis singular
entases plural

Etymology

Entasis comes from Greek parts en- 'in' and tasis from a root meaning 'to stretch', the same idea you see in tension. So entasis is a small 'stretch' or outward curve in a column that makes the column look straight to the eye.