corbie-step: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low / ObsoleteTechnical / Architectural / Historical / Regional
Quick answer
What does “corbie-step” mean?
One of a series of steps on the sloping sides of a gable, characteristic of medieval architecture.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
One of a series of steps on the sloping sides of a gable, characteristic of medieval architecture.
The distinctive stepped edge of a gable roof, often seen in traditional Northern European and Scottish architecture. Also refers more generally to any similar staggered or notched pattern.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, the term is known, though rare, particularly in Scottish contexts. In American English, the more common term is 'crow step' or the Dutch-derived 'corbel step'. 'Corbie-step' is virtually unknown in general American usage.
Connotations
In UK usage, it carries strong connotations of Scottish baronial architecture and medieval history. In US usage, if the term is used at all, it is a purely technical architectural descriptor without strong regional associations.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both dialects, but slightly more attested in historical British texts than in American ones.
Grammar
How to Use “corbie-step” in a Sentence
[building/roof/gable] + with + corbie-stepscorbie-steps + of + [material/period/style]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “corbie-step” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not used as a verb.
American English
- Not used as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not used as an adverb.
American English
- Not used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- The corbie-stepped gable was a defining feature of the old Scotch kirk.
American English
- The house displayed a distinctive crow-stepped gable design.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical, architectural, or art history texts describing medieval or Scottish buildings.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Used as a precise term in architectural history, conservation, and descriptions of traditional building styles.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “corbie-step”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “corbie-step”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “corbie-step”
- Spelling as 'corby-step' or 'corbystep'. Using it as a verb (e.g., 'to corbie-step'). Confusing it with 'corbel' (a supporting architectural bracket), though they share an etymological root.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a highly specialised, low-frequency term used almost exclusively in architectural history and related fields.
'Corbie' is an archaic or dialectal Scots and Northern English word for a crow or raven, derived from Old French 'corbin'.
Only if you are writing about specific historical architecture. In general contexts, 'stepped gable' or 'crow step' are more widely understood alternatives.
They are most commonly associated with medieval Northern European, particularly Scottish, Flemish, and Dutch architecture, often on churches, castles, and old merchant houses.
One of a series of steps on the sloping sides of a gable, characteristic of medieval architecture.
Corbie-step is usually technical / architectural / historical / regional in register.
Corbie-step: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːbi ˌstɛp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːrbi ˌstɛp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated with the term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a CROW ('corbie') walking up the side of a roof, leaving a line of STEPs in the stonework.
Conceptual Metaphor
ARCHITECTURAL FEATURE IS ANIMAL TRACK (the stepped pattern resembles a bird's footprints).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'corbie-step' most accurately described as?