pediments

Temple roof triangles

Pediments are the triangular sections formed by a sloping roof, typically found above doorways, windows, or porticos in classical architecture.

The form derives from ancient Greek temples, where the pediment's recessed face often held sculptural decoration.

Pediments appear in various styles—broken, segmental, or scrolled—and remain common in neoclassical buildings: The courthouse featured columns supporting an elaborate pediment.

architectural

gable

Triangular wall portion

tympanum · colonnade · portico · facade · temple · classical · triangular · raking · broken · segmental

geological

erosion

Gradual wearing away

  • mesaFlat-topped steep-sided elevation
  • plateauFlat highland area
  • alluvialDeposited by moving water

bajada · slope · sediment · desert · mountain · weathering · deposition · bedrock · talus · foothill

Categories
Opposites
architectural crowning elements

pedimentsdomes

Vaulted rounded ceilings

arches · vaults · barrel vaults · rounded arches · cupolas

architectural style

pedimentsflat roofs

Level building covers

architectural geometry

pedimentscurves

Bends in a line

arcs · organic forms · flowing lines

Family

impediment, pediment

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G