corbel out: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialized, Technical
Quick answer
What does “corbel out” mean?
to project from a wall or structure, supported by corbels.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
to project from a wall or structure, supported by corbels.
In architecture, to build a part of a structure so that it extends outwards from a wall, supported by a series of projecting stone or brick supports (corbels). More generally, the act of constructing something that overhangs its base of support.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Identical in technical meaning. The term 'corbel' is used in both varieties, but overall usage is extremely low and confined to architecture. No significant differences in usage.
Connotations
Technical, historical, architectural precision.
Frequency
Very rare in general language. Slightly higher frequency in UK contexts related to historical building preservation, but still a specialist term.
Grammar
How to Use “corbel out” in a Sentence
[Subject (builder/architect)] + corbel out + [Object (structure/room)] + from [Location (wall/tower)]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “corbel out” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The medieval builders would corbel out the upper storey to gain more floor space.
- The chimney is corbelled out from the main wall.
American English
- The architect specified to corbel out the bay window for a Gothic Revival effect.
- They corbeled out the stone parapet for defensive purposes.
adverb
British English
- The tower was built corbel out, creating a dramatic silhouette.
- The room extends corbel out over the alley.
American English
- The structure was designed to project corbel out from the façade.
- It was constructed corbel out, a testament to ancient engineering.
adjective
British English
- The corbelled-out section required careful assessment.
- A corbelling-out technique was employed.
American English
- The corbeled-out balcony offered a stunning view.
- Inspect the corbeling-out masonry for cracks.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in architecture, archaeology, and art history papers to describe historical building features.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core context. Used in architectural plans, conservation reports, and descriptions of medieval and Gothic structures.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “corbel out”
- Using it as a noun (e.g., 'a corbel out'). It is a phrasal verb. Confusing it with 'corbel arch' or 'corbel vault', which are related nouns. Using it for modern steel cantilevers.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is primarily a historical or stylistic architectural term. Modern overhangs typically use steel cantilevers.
No. The noun form is 'corbel' or 'corbelling'. 'Corbel out' is exclusively a phrasal verb or its derived adjective ('corbelled-out').
Both create overhangs. 'Corbel out' uses a series of stepped supports (bricks, stones) from a wall. 'Cantilever' uses a beam anchored at only one end, often internally supported.
It is a low-priority, C2-level term. Essential only for learners specializing in architecture, archaeology, or history. General learners can use simpler terms like 'jut out' or 'overhang'.
to project from a wall or structure, supported by corbels.
Corbel out is usually specialized, technical in register.
Corbel out: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːb(ə)l aʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːrb(ə)l aʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated. Related concept: 'built on stilts'.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine an old castle where the UPPER ROOMS OUtgrow the lower walls, supported by stone "arms" (corbels). Think: CORBel OUT = Castle's Overhanging Room Built On Underlying Teeth.
Conceptual Metaphor
BUILDING IS A LIVING BODY (it 'grows' outwards); SUPPORT IS HOLDING (the wall 'holds' the extension).
Practice
Quiz
What does 'to corbel out' specifically imply in architecture?