Cornice

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈkɔːnɪs/

Definitions

1. A horizontal decorative molding that projects along the top of a wall or building, or the uppermost part of an entablature in classical architecture
2. A projecting ornamental strip of molded material that crowns the top of a wall, building facade, or interior wall surface
3. The uppermost horizontal architectural element featuring carved or molded decoration that juts outward from a wall or structure
4. An ornamental projecting strip of molded material running horizontally at the top of a wall, building facade, or interior surface to provide architectural detail
5. A horizontal band of carved or molded decoration that extends outward from the upper edge of a structure or interior wall to create visual interest

Etymology: The top projecting band of a wall, building or piece of furniture has a name that may come from a bird. Its likely source is Latin "cornix," meaning "crow," though the link is uncertain. The other candidate is Latin "coronis," a term for a curved line or flourish in writing, borrowed from Greek "korōnis." Both routes passed through Italian "cornice" and Middle French "corniche," and it is not settled which one lies behind the architectural sense. The architectural meaning is what remains most stable across these languages. Whichever origin is correct, the word moved from a crow or a curling stroke into the vocabulary of building, where it names the moulded ledge that crowns a structure and throws rain away from the surface below.

Synonyms: ledge, overhang, eave