Crepidoma
/ˌkrɛpɪˈdoʊmə/noun
A stepped stone platform forming the foundation of a classical Greek temple.
Did you know?The crepidoma’s uppermost step, the stylobate, directly supported the temple’s columns and visually elevated the structure above the ordinary human world.
Etymological Timeline
Archaic Greek
Greek
κρηπίς (krepís)
“A base, foundation, or shoe-like support.”
Classical Greek
Greek
κρηπίδωμα (krepidōma)
“A foundation or stepped base, especially beneath a building.”
Ancient Greek architectural usage
Greek
κρηπίδωμα
“The stepped platform on which a temple was constructed.”
19th Century
English
crepidoma
“A stepped foundation or platform of a classical temple.”
Modern English
English
crepidoma
“The tiered stone base supporting a Greek temple.”
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