noun
obelisk
AH-buh-lisk/ˈɑːbəlɪsk/
A tall, four-sided pillar that narrows toward a pyramid-shaped top.
A stone obelisk rises above the trees in the park.
Etymology
The Greek formation means “small spit,” an image suited to the pillar’s slender, pointed shape. The origin of obelos itself is uncertain.
In context
introducing the great sweeping colonnades that define an oval space centered on a re-positioned Egyptian obelisk.
More examples
- The obelisk narrows from its square base to a pyramid-shaped tip.
- Two ancient obelisks stand at the temple entrance.
- Workers clean the inscriptions on all four sides of the obelisk.
Forms
obelisk · obelisks