abacus
1
9.3
A flat slab on top of a column that supports the beam above
- noun
- /ˈæbəkəs/
- Specialized
:
ámbito
Examples
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From the abacus to the iPad.
Blog text (9) -
The architect explained that the abacus is essential for supporting the architrave above the columns.
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In classical architecture, a flat slab known as an abacus is placed on top of each column's capital.
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To support the decorative architrave, the team installed a finely carved abacus atop the column.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Abacus comes from the Greek word abax, meaning 'table' or 'board', and was used for a flat surface in building. That is why an architectural abacus is the flat 'table' sitting on top of a column to help carry the weight above it.