Definition

A building technique where bricks or stones are arranged so that each layer sticks out more than the one below it, creating a support structure.

Example

The ancient temple featured beautiful corbeling that added to its architectural elegance.

Conversation

I saw a beautiful building downtown with amazing corbeling on the roof.

Really? I love when they do that; it adds so much character.

Exactly! I want to learn more about how they do that kind of corbeling.

You should! It would be interesting to see the techniques they use.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Corbeling originates from the word 'corbel' (from Old French *corbeau*, meaning raven or crow, used in architecture to describe a bracket resembling a bird's beak) combined with the suffix '-ing' (indicating the action or process). The term refers to the action of supporting or projecting from a wall, similar to how a corbel supports a structure.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'corbel' as a bracket that 'projects' from a wall, and the '-ing' shows it's the action of doing that. This helps you remember that corbeling is the process of using these supports.

Visually Confused Words