cornice

[/ˈkɔːrnɪs/]
nounpl: cornices
cornija
1. A decorative molding that forms the uppermost part of a wall or building, just below the roofline
The Victorian mansion featured an ornate cornice with intricate carvings.
A mansão vitoriana apresentava uma cornija ornamentada com esculturas intrincadas.
2. In mountaineering and skiing, an overhanging edge of snow or ice on a ridge or cliff
The climber carefully avoided the unstable cornice at the summit.
O alpinista evitou cuidadosamente a cornija instável no topo.
3. A horizontal architectural element that projects outward from a wall for decoration or support
The building's cornice provided both aesthetic appeal and structural support.
A cornija do edifício proporcionava tanto apelo estético quanto suporte estrutural.
In Brazilian architecture, cornijas are traditional features of colonial and neoclassical buildings, particularly in historic city centers like Salvador, Recife, and Rio de Janeiro. They represent important architectural heritage and are protected in many historic districts. In North American usage, cornices are standard in classical and Victorian architecture and remain popular in upscale residential and commercial construction.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
moldingtrimcrown moldingledgeprojection

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
cornija
Standard term used in architecture and construction
Portugal
cornija
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; also sometimes spelled 'cornige' in older texts
Technical/Architectural
moldura de cornija
More elaborate term emphasizing the molding aspect

Related Words

architravefriezeentablatureeavesfasciaparapet

Related Idioms & Phrases

corniced ridge (skiing/mountaineering term)
decorative cornice work
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