Prostyle

Part of speech: adjective, noun

Definitions

1. An architectural structure with a row of columns across its front facade only
2. A building or temple featuring columns positioned solely at the entrance or front face
3. A structure designed with columns at the front end but not extending along the sides or rear

Etymology: Ancient Greek builders used "próstulos" to describe a building whose front is fronted by a row of columns, with the columns standing in a line across the entrance without running along the sides. The word is built from "pro-", meaning "before" or "in front," and "stulos," meaning "column" or "pillar," so it names a structure defined by what stands in front of it. In English, "prostyle" keeps that Greek meaning almost unchanged, and it is used as a technical term in architecture for a temple or portico with free-standing columns across its front. The Greek word itself is the source, so the term is a direct reflection of classical architectural vocabulary rather than a later coinage that merely borrows Greek roots.