edifice

noun

ed·​i·​fice ˈe-də-fəs How to pronounce edifice (audio)
Synonyms of edifice
1
: building
especially : a large or massive structure
2
: a large abstract structure
… holds together the social edifice …—R. H. Tawney

Synonyms of edifice

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Examples of edifice in a Sentence

a magnificent edifice with a domed ceiling the U.S. Capitol is one of our nation's most impressive edifices
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tea & Coffee Piazza was essentially architecture in miniature, translating the vocabulary of buildings into household objects that echoed the postmodern edifices it was so obviously bought for. — Robb Report, 9 Oct. 2026 Neighborhoods have sprung back to life thanks to new ferry services; long-derelict edifices are being renovated, including the 1888 Custom House, which is opening this year as a hotel, The Langham; and there are plans for a pedestrian bridge. — Tony Perrottet, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 But a tarp was then placed over the entire edifice as if to hide it. — Tom Tapp, Deadline, 17 Sep. 2026 Klepach’s criticism was a modest gesture of public dissent against an edifice of power that remains more than formidable. — Michael Kimmage, Foreign Affairs, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for edifice

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin aedificium, from aedificare

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of edifice was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

edificatory
edifice
edificial
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Cite this Entry

“Edifice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/edifice. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

edifice

noun
ed·​i·​fice ˈed-ə-fəs How to pronounce edifice (audio)
: building sense 1
especially : a large or impressive building (as a church)
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