Meaning & use
modillions
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“modillions” is a form of “modillion”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meaning
nounpluraltechnical
Small ornamental brackets, often scrolled, placed in a row under the projecting edge of a cornice in classical and later buildings.
Grammar: Plural of modillion: the modillions run along the roofline.
Patterns
- modillions under something
Carved modillions line the underside of the cornice.
The restorer repainted the modillions in cream.
Modillions give the old bank an elegant roofline.
Word forms
| singular | modillion |
|---|
Common combinations
- carved modillions
- Carved modillions decorate the library roof.
- cornice with modillions
- The cornice with modillions was restored.
- scrolled modillions
- Scrolled modillions are typical of Corinthian style.
- row of modillions
- A row of modillions runs beneath the eaves.
Synonyms and how they differ
- brackets
- Brackets is the general word for supports; modillions are specifically decorative and sit beneath a cornice.
- corbels
- Corbels are projecting supports that carry weight, while modillions are mostly decorative.
- consoles
- Consoles are scroll-shaped brackets and can appear anywhere, not only under a cornice.
Word family
Commonly confused: modillions or millions?
modillions vs millions
Millions means very large numbers. Modillions are small architectural brackets and have nothing to do with counting.
Practice
Where would you find modillions on a building?
Choose one answer.
Modillions are decorative brackets beneath the cornice. The other places do not carry them.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “modillions”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.