metope: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Formal
Quick answer
What does “metope” mean?
A square space between triglyphs in a Doric frieze, often decorated with sculpture or painting.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A square space between triglyphs in a Doric frieze, often decorated with sculpture or painting.
In classical architecture, a rectangular architectural element that alternates with triglyphs; by extension, any similar decorative panel in derivative architectural styles.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
None beyond its technical architectural meaning.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, confined to specialist discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “metope” in a Sentence
The [adjective] metope depicts [subject].A metope is located between two triglyphs.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “metope” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The metopal decoration was remarkably well-preserved.
American English
- The metopal sculpture showed signs of ancient repair.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in archaeology, art history, and classical studies texts.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard term in architectural history and descriptions of classical buildings.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “metope”
- Mispronouncing as /miːˈtoʊp/ or /ˈmiːtəʊp/.
- Using it to refer to any decorative panel, not specifically one in a Doric frieze.
- Confusing it with 'medallion' or 'tympanum'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a highly specialised term used almost exclusively in architecture, archaeology, and classical studies.
Almost never. Its meaning is strictly tied to the Doric order in classical architecture, though it may be used by analogy in describing similar panels in later styles.
It is pronounced /ˈmɛtəʊp/ (MET-ohp), with stress on the first syllable.
They are alternating elements in a Doric frieze. A triglyph is a tablet with three vertical grooves, and a metope is the plain or sculpted square space between two triglyphs.
A square space between triglyphs in a Doric frieze, often decorated with sculpture or painting.
Metope is usually technical/formal in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: METOPE = METhodically Placed Ornament. It's the decorated square PLACED methodically between the triglyphs.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A. The term is a concrete, technical label without common metaphorical extensions.
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'metope'?