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Glite Dictionary
semidome

semidome

7.9
A curved roof or ceiling that covers a small space like an altar
  • noun
  • /ˈsɛmɪˌdoʊm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : semidomo
  • A beautiful fresco adorns the semidome above the altar, creating a serene atmosphere in the church.

Examples

  • Accordingly, in 1592 the MIA commissioned Cavagna to paint a fresco of the assumed Virgin in the semidome of the choir (Fig. 16).

    Academic text (2000)

  • Following major earthquakes in 1343 and 1344, the eastern main arch gave way in 1346, along with the eastern semidome and part of the main dome on that side.

    Academic text (2003)

  • Additional pillars would carry half or semidomes on the east and west, forming a vast open area of 245 feet by 230 feet.

    Academic text (2003)

  • The architect designed a stunning semidome to crown the entrance of the building.

  • The theater features an impressive semidome ceiling that enhances the acoustics for performances.

How Curved

dome
116 3.4
semidome
  • Specialized
7.9
vault
4 5.8
hip roof
  • Specialized
5.1

Surface Forms

semidome singular
semidomes plural

Morphology

semidome = dome (transparent) = semi + dome

The meaning is directly compositional: 'semi-' means half and 'dome' supplies the architectural base.

Etymology

Semidome breaks into semi- meaning 'half' and dome meaning 'round roof', so think of a dome cut in two. So a semidome is literally a 'half-dome' roof used to cover a small curved space, like the area above an altar or entrance.