: 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
Recent Examples on the WebNevertheless, a pediment (gable) discovered in its proximity, currently on display in the Israel Museum, also dates to the time of David. Marion Fischel, Sun Sentinel, 1 Sep. 2022 The troubles of the decaying steeple and its rotting pediment were well known to the interdenominational congregation of 150 families, affiliated with the United Church of Christ. Kenneth R. Gosselin, courant.com, 25 Mar. 2022 Why does the date on the pediment on the front of Arlington Memorial Amphitheater correctly show the year it was built — 1915 — as MCMXV, but the cornerstone on the amphitheater’s tomb side shows the year as MDCCCCXV.Washington Post, 4 Dec. 2021 The original wood pediment was about 10 inches deep.Washington Post, 12 Sep. 2021 Four massive columns support the triangular front pediment (gable), and large windows let in plenty of light.Washington Post, 5 Nov. 2021 The classic Pantheon Grille—the chrome columns and Greek-temple pediment on the radiator that makes a Rolls unmistakably a Rolls—has been softened and flattened.WSJ, 27 May 2021 However, tucked into one of those walls is an elegant but easily missed double door underneath a broken pediment leading to a true treasure trove filled with items that would fetch eye-popping sums at auction. Aaron Pressman, Fortune, 21 May 2021 In the sanctuary, a replica of the Señor de Tula stands on a red marble pediment behind the altar, a replacement for the stainless-steel cross originally installed by the architects.New York Times, 15 Mar. 2021 See More
Word History
Etymology
alteration of obsolete English periment, probably alteration of English pyramid