noun
portico
POR-tih-koh/ˈpɔːrtɪkəʊ/
A roofed entrance porch supported by columns.
Columns support the portico over the entrance.
Etymology
Latin porticus named a covered walk, colonnade, or porch. The English sense focuses this architectural idea on a roofed entrance sheltered by a row of columns.
In context
in the wicker chair in the big portico before the entrance we sat
More examples
- We sheltered beneath the portico during the shower.
- The portico faced the public square.
- A broad staircase led to the portico.
Forms
portico · porticos
Similar words
- porch
- Porch is the broader term for a covered entrance area; a portico is specifically supported by columns.
- colonnade
- A colonnade is a row of columns; a portico uses columns to support an entrance roof.