edifice

noun

ed·​i·​fice ˈe-də-fəs How to pronounce edifice (audio)
1
: building
especially : a large or massive structure
2
: a large abstract structure
holds together the social edificeR. H. Tawney

Examples of edifice in a Sentence

a magnificent edifice with a domed ceiling the U.S. Capitol is one of our nation's most impressive edifices
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.
And when that happens, confidence in the entire edifice of government will unravel. Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 25 Mar. 2025 St James’ Park is a centripetal edifice, looming over everything and everyone. George Caulkin, The Athletic, 13 Mar. 2025 Yet, for all this progress, the cracks in the 401(k) edifice remain glaring. Brian Menickella, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 Not least because the ruse allows for a Putin or two to die while another survives without toppling the edifice built by the original one. Melik Kaylan, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for edifice

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin aedificium, from aedificare

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of edifice was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Edifice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/edifice. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

edifice

noun
ed·​i·​fice ˈed-ə-fəs How to pronounce edifice (audio)
: building sense 1
especially : a large or impressive building (as a church)

More from Merriam-Webster on edifice

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