pediment

noun

ped·​i·​ment ˈpe-də-mənt How to pronounce pediment (audio)
1
: a triangular space that forms the gable of a low-pitched roof and that is usually filled with relief sculpture in classical architecture
also : a similar form used as a decoration
2
: a broad gently sloping bedrock surface with low relief that is situated at the base of a steeper slope and is usually thinly covered with alluvial gravel and sand
pedimental adjective
pedimented adjective

Examples of pediment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Its pediments crowned with griffins – mythological creatures that are part lion and part eagle – have looked out across the parkway like silent sentinels of culture. Sheri Lambert, The Conversation, 28 Oct. 2025 In remembrance, Collins carved a sliver of the Jackson pediment into tiny rose petals and scattered them around the remnant. Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 24 Oct. 2025 Many of the home’s original elements remain, including the fireplace, doors, windows, crown molding, baseboards, and pediments. Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 22 Aug. 2025 The portico appears to be a shallower version of the original by James Hoban — the one with the triangular pediment on the house’s north side, not the rounded one on the south. Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 1 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pediment

Word History

Etymology

alteration of obsolete English periment, probably alteration of English pyramid

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pediment was in 1664

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pediment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pediment. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

pediment

noun
ped·​i·​ment ˈped-ə-mənt How to pronounce pediment (audio)
: a triangular space forming the gable of a roof in classic architecture

More from Merriam-Webster on pediment

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