cyma recta
Very lowTechnical/Formal
Definition
Meaning
A specific S-shaped double curve in classical architecture, concave at the top and convex at the bottom.
A formal architectural moulding with a profile of two opposite curves, primarily used in cornices. In art and design, it can describe any similar flowing, serpentine line.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Strictly a technical architectural term for a specific moulding profile. The reverse form (convex then concave) is called a 'cyma reversa' or 'ogee'. Not used in general discourse.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences; the term is used identically in architectural contexts in both the UK and US.
Connotations
Carries strong connotations of classical architecture, historical building, and formal, decorative design.
Frequency
Equally rare in both variants, confined to architecture, restoration, and art history.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The cornice featured a (prominent/elaborate) cyma recta.A [material] cyma recta was used to crown the entablature.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Never used.
Academic
Used in specific disciplines: architecture, art history, archaeology.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Primary domain. Used by architects, designers, stonemasons, and architectural historians to describe a specific moulding profile.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- The cyma-recta profile is characteristic of the period.
American English
- A cyma-recta moulding was specified in the drawings.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- (Not applicable for this technical term.)
- The old building has a decorative curve at the top called a cyma recta.
- The architect specified a classical cyma recta for the cornice to complement the Georgian style of the facade.
- A meticulous analysis of the entablature revealed that the primary moulding was not a simple ogee but a true cyma recta, indicating a late Roman influence.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine the letters 'S' and 'R'. Cyma Recta is the 'S' curve used in the Right (Recta) order: first concave (inwards), then convex (outwards).
Conceptual Metaphor
ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL IS A SIGNATURE (of a style or period).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating 'recta' literally as 'прямая'. The term is a fixed Latin compound. The Russian architectural equivalent is often 'выкружка' or 'гусёк', but these are not perfect matches.
Common Mistakes
- Pronouncing 'cyma' as /ˈkaɪmə/ instead of /ˈsaɪmə/.
- Confusing 'cyma recta' with its inverse, 'cyma reversa' or 'ogee'.
- Using it outside of architectural/design contexts.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would you most likely encounter the term 'cyma recta'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are often confused. A cyma recta is concave at the top and convex at the bottom. An ogee (or cyma reversa) is the reverse: convex at the top and concave at the bottom.
No. It is a highly specialised technical term. It is only necessary for those studying or working in architecture, architectural history, or related design fields.
It derives from the Greek 'kyma', meaning 'wave' or 'something swollen', referring to the wavelike shape of the moulding.
Yes, it is often used attributively (e.g., 'a cyma-recta moulding') to describe a feature that has that specific profile.