Dictionary

1pedestal

noun ped·es·tal \ˈpe-dəs-təl\

: the base of a column or other tall object

—used to describe the position of someone who is admired, successful, etc.

Full Definition of PEDESTAL

1
a :  the support or foot of a late classic or neoclassic column — see column illustration
b :  the base of an upright structure
3
:  a position of esteem
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Origin of PEDESTAL

Middle French piedestal, from Old Italian piedestallo, from pie di stallo foot of a stall
First Known Use: 1563

Other Architecture Terms

buttress, casita, cornice, fanlight, garret, lintel, parapet, pilaster, plinth

2pedestal

verb
pedestaled or pedestalledpedestal·ing or pedestal·ling

Definition of PEDESTAL

transitive verb
:  to place on or furnish with a pedestal

First Known Use of PEDESTAL

1648
PEDESTAL Defined for Kids

pedestal

noun ped·es·tal \ˈped-əs-təl\

Definition of PEDESTAL for Kids

1
:  a support or foot of an upright structure (as a column, statue, or lamp)
2
:  a position of high regard <The students put their teacher on a pedestal.>

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