noun

architrave

AR-kih-trayv

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Architrave (noun) means In classical architecture, the lowest part of an entablature, which rests on the tops of the columns. Example: “The architrave rests directly on the capitals of the columns.”

noun

architecture In classical architecture, the lowest part of an entablature, which rests on the tops of the columns.

"The architrave rests directly on the capitals of the columns."

"Visitors admired the carved architrave along the temple's front."

"The stone architrave had cracked after centuries of weathering."

architecture The moulding or trim that frames a door, window, or other rectangular opening.

"A wooden architrave frames the sitting-room door."

"They painted the window architrave to match the walls."

"The architrave around the doorway had worked loose over time."

How to use architrave

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA structural or decorative beam-like trim, found either above columns or framing a door or window.

When to use it

Architrave is a specialist term used in architecture and interior fitting.

Memory tip

Remember architrave can mean a grand stone beam above columns or simple trim round a door, depending on context.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

entablature lintel →

Common pairings

door architrave window architrave paint the architrave carved architrave

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ rests directly on the capitals of the columns.

Etymology

The word was first recorded in English in 1563. It was borrowed from Italian architrave, which itself combines archi-, meaning main, with trave, meaning beam.

Origin: Italian

Rhymes for architrave

ave gave save have wave cave nave pave rave fave Dave weave

See all rhymes for architrave →

Frequently asked questions

What is an architrave?

In classical architecture it is the lowest part of an entablature, resting on the columns; the same word also names the moulding around a door or window.

Where does the word architrave come from?

It entered English in 1563 from Italian architrave, built from archi- (main) and trave (beam).

Where would you find an architrave in a building?

Either at the base of an entablature above a row of columns, or as the trim framing a door or window opening.

What is the meaning of architrave?

"architrave" (noun) means in classical architecture, the lowest part of an entablature, which rests on the tops of the columns.