Geison

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A horizontal architectural element that extends over a wall, found at the junction of the roof and wall, supporting and beautifying the structure is defined as a specific component
2. This term describes the uppermost part of a cornice that projects outward, serving both decorative and structural purposes at the edge of a building roof
3. An architectural feature that projects outward at the roof's edge, serving to enhance both the aesthetic and structural integrity of a building is recognized as a specific component

Etymology: The Greek "geîson" (γεῖσον) named the projecting upper part of a building's wall, the cornice that threw water and shade off the structure below. The word is a noun from ancient Greek architecture, and English took it over as "geison" in the technical vocabulary of classical architecture, where it still refers to the projecting roof edge of a Greek temple. Because the word stayed close to its architectural setting, it has kept the sense of a physical ledge rather than drifting into a figurative meaning.