Definition

A small outward curve or bulge in a column's shaft, designed to make the column appear straight and avoid the optical illusion of concavity.

Example

The ancient Greeks used entasis in their columns to enhance their visual appeal.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the entasis on ancient columns?

Yeah, it's really interesting how they designed it that way.

I read that it was meant to prevent the visual illusion of concavity.

Exactly! It's amazing how architecture plays with our perception.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Entasis** → It is formed from "en-" (meaning in or within) and "tasis" (from Greek "tasis", meaning tension or stretching). The word refers to a slight curvature in columns that creates an optical illusion of straightness, thus giving a sense of tension or strength within the structure.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'tension' ('tasis') that is created by the slight 'curvature' ('en-') in columns, which helps you remember that 'entasis' refers to this architectural feature.

Visually Confused Words