atlantes: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialist, formal, academic
Quick answer
What does “atlantes” mean?
Stone statues of male figures (telemones) used as supporting columns in classical architecture, named after the Titan Atlas.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Stone statues of male figures (telemones) used as supporting columns in classical architecture, named after the Titan Atlas.
More generally, any architectural supports in the form of muscular male figures. In modern usage, it can be a rare, formal plural for 'atlas' (a book of maps or charts).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The word is equally rare and academic in both varieties.
Connotations
Both varieties strongly connote classical scholarship, art history, or formal architectural description.
Frequency
Exceptionally low frequency in both. Its use is confined to technical domains.
Grammar
How to Use “atlantes” in a Sentence
The [noun] featured atlantes supporting the entablature.Atlantes are a hallmark of [architectural style].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in art history, archaeology, and architectural history texts to describe specific structural features of classical and neoclassical buildings.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Precise term in architectural and classical studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “atlantes”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “atlantes”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “atlantes”
- Using 'atlantes' as a regular plural for a modern map book (use 'atlases').
- Pronouncing it with a strong /æt/ at the start (the first syllable is a schwa: /ət/).
- Confusing it with the singular 'atlas'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, that is an extremely rare and archaic usage. The correct plural for a book of maps is 'atlases'. 'Atlantes' is primarily an architectural term.
Both are sculpted figures used as architectural supports. 'Atlantes' are male figures (named after Atlas), while 'caryatids' are female figures.
It would sound highly unusual and overly academic. In almost all everyday situations, you would describe them simply as 'statues' or 'figures holding up the building'.
The stress is on the second syllable: /ət-LAN-teez/. The first syllable is a quick, unstressed 'uh' sound.
Stone statues of male figures (telemones) used as supporting columns in classical architecture, named after the Titan Atlas.
Atlantes is usually specialist, formal, academic in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No specific idioms]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the Titan 'Atlas' holding up the sky; 'Atlantes' are his stone counterparts holding up buildings.
Conceptual Metaphor
STRENGTH IS MASCULINE SUPPORT; ARCHITECTURE AS HUMAN FORM.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would you most likely encounter the word 'atlantes'?