cullis: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareSpecialized / Technical
Quick answer
What does “cullis” mean?
A vertical groove, slot, or opening, often found in architecture or construction, particularly in masonry.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A vertical groove, slot, or opening, often found in architecture or construction, particularly in masonry.
Historically, a water channel or drain, especially a gutter in a roof. Also used in cookery for a clarified broth.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is equally rare in both varieties. The architectural sense may be slightly more recognized in British texts due to historical preservation contexts. The culinary sense is obsolescent in both.
Connotations
Technical, historical, architectural. No particular positive or negative charge.
Frequency
Extremely low-frequency word outside of specialized architectural or historical texts. Not used in general conversation.
Grammar
How to Use “cullis” in a Sentence
the [material] cullisa cullis for [purpose]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cullis” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The lead cullis was blocked with leaves.
- He prepared a beef cullis for the soup.
American English
- The stone cullis directed water from the roof.
- The recipe called for a chicken cullis.
verb
British English
- The masons will cullis the stone to carry off rainwater.
American English
- The architect specified to cullis the parapet wall.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical or architectural research papers.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Used in architecture, masonry, and building conservation.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cullis”
- Confusing it with 'coulis' (a fruit/vegetable sauce).
- Misspelling as 'coulis'.
- Assuming it is a common word.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Coulis' (pronounced koo-LEE) is a thin sauce made from puréed vegetables or fruits. 'Cullis' is an architectural or historical term.
Most likely in texts about historical building techniques, architectural conservation, or very old cookbooks.
Yes, rarely, meaning to make or fit with a cullis (a channel).
No. It is a highly specialized, low-frequency term. Learners should be aware of it to avoid confusion with 'coulis', but active use is not required.
A vertical groove, slot, or opening, often found in architecture or construction, particularly in masonry.
Cullis is usually specialized / technical in register.
Cullis: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkʌlɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkʌlɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'cullis' as a 'cooling' channel for water, or remember 'cull' + 'is' – as in selecting (culling) a path for water to flow.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PATHWAY FOR FLOW (water, light, air).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary modern meaning of 'cullis'?