noun
coffer
A decorative recessed panel in a ceiling or dome.
Each coffer in the ceiling has a small floral design.
Etymology
French coffre named a chest or box. A recessed architectural panel resembles a shallow box set into the ceiling, giving the hollow compartment its decorative name.
More examples
- Rows of square coffers give the ceiling depth.
- The dome's coffers grow smaller toward the top.
- The painter adds gold trim around each coffer.
Forms
coffer · coffers
coffered adjective — Decorated with recessed ceiling panels.