CARYATIC Meaning and
Definition
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Caryatic is an adjective used to describe something or someone that is related to or resembles a caryatid. The word caryatid originates from the Greek term "karyatides," which refers to statues of draped female figures used as architectural supports in ancient Greek buildings.
In architectural terms, a caryatid is a sculpted female figure, usually draped, that serves as a supporting column or pillar. Caryatids are often depicted in a standing position, with their arms raised to support an entablature or architectural element. These figures typically possess an elegant and noble appearance, representing sublime beauty and grace.
When referring to something as "caryatic," it means that the object or person displays qualities or characteristics similar to those of a caryatid. It could denote poise, beauty, elegance, or an overall aesthetic resemblance. For instance, one might describe a building with intricately carved female figurines as having caryatic architecture or a style reminiscent of caryatids. Similarly, the term could be used to describe a person who possesses graceful statuesque qualities or reflects the beauty associated with the caryatid figures.
The use of the term "caryatic" extends beyond architecture or physical appearance, as it can also be employed metaphorically to describe abstract concepts. For example, one might describe a painting as having a caryatic composition if it portrays a sense of balance, harmony, and beauty through its arrangement of forms and colors.
Overall, "caryatic" serves as an adjective to connote the resemblance, association, or embodiment of the beauty, elegance, and grace commonly associated with caryatids.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CARYATIC
- xaryatic
- varyatic
- faryatic
- daryatic
- czryatic
- csryatic
- cwryatic
- cqryatic
- caeyatic
- cadyatic
- cafyatic
- catyatic
- ca5yatic
- ca4yatic
- cartatic
- cargatic
- carhatic
- caruatic
- car7atic
- cafryatic
Etymology of CARYATIC
The word "Caryatic" is derived from the Greek word "Karyatides" (Καρυάτιδες) which means "maidens of Karyai". Karyai, also known as Karyae or Karya, was a small town in ancient Greece located in Laconia, near Mount Parnon. The term "Caryatic" specifically refers to the architectural style of using columns in the shape of draped female figures, known as caryatids, which were common in ancient Greek and Roman architecture. These figures served as support columns, typically placed in a row, with the weight bourn on their heads. The term has since been adapted to describe similar architectural elements in other cultures and periods.
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