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Define Architecture Words

Find definitions in these glossaries for architecture, design, and construction

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Architecture Words A-Z
Use this alphabetical dictionary to find definitions and pictures for words related to architecture and building design. Did we leave out an important definition? Suggest a Word.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U-V

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Learn the specialized vocabulary for architecture, interior decorating, construction, and related fields. Each of the glossaries listed below has word meanings to help you with building and design projects.

Architecture Acronymns

Blueprint and Ruler and CompassPhoto © Robert George Young / Getty Images

Check the business card of any architect or design pro and you'll see an acronym (a string of letters) such as AIA or RA. What do the letters stand for? Find answers in this glossary of architecture acronymns.

Architecture Acronymns

Architecture Picture Dictionaries

Capital of a Composite ColumnCapital of a Composite Column. 18th century French engraving
Architecture is a visual art. These Picture Dictionaries provide illustrated definitions for complex ideas like Deconstructivism and Classical Orders. Included are picture dictionaries for Historic Periods and Styles, Modern Architecture, Column Styles & Types, Roof Styles, House Styles, Colonial Styles, and Victorian Styles.
Architecture Picture Dictionaries

Electrical Glossary

Hanging Lamp by Frank Lloyd Wright at the Dana HouseHanging Lamp at the Dana House courtesy Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, permission of Portland Museum
Understanding wiring and electricity begins with learning the complicated vocabulary. This glossary of electrical terms includes the basics such as Buss Bar, GFCI, Romex, and more.
Electrical Glossary

Feng Shui Glossary

Bagua DiagramBagua Diagram courtesy Stanley Bartlett
From BAGUA to Space Clearing, this glossary has definitions for words related to the ancient Asian art of Feng Shui, including Feng Shui theories and Feng Shui cures.
Feng Shui Glossary

Furniture Glossary

The Barrel Chair by Frank Lloyd WrightThe Barrel Chair by Frank Lloyd Wright. Photo courtesy of ModernClassics.com
Do words like Bergere, Burl, and Chinoiserie leave you stumped? This glossary of furniture terms has answers.
Furniture Glossary

Garage & Storage Glossary

Barn converted into a garage, Madbury, New HampshireBarn converted into a garage, Madbury, New Hampshire. Photo ©Tony Fallon Architecture

The words in this glossary are often used when designing and building garages and storage spaces. Included: Drywall, joist, beam, and stud.

Garage & Storage Glossary

Home Repair & Tool Glossary

Young female apprentice working on a construction site.Photo © Lisa F. Young / iStockphoto.com

What's a BTU? What's a Zip Tool? Find meanings for terms and phrases related to construction and home repair.

Home Repair & Tool Terms

Housewares & Appliances Glossary

Kitchen at the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway in Palm Springs, CaliforniaElvis Honeymoon Hideaway in Palm Springs, California. Photo © Jackie Craven
Find the words you need to know to evaluate and choose appliances, kitchenware, cutlery, cookware, and other housewares. Included: Anodized, CADR, Encapsulated, HEPA, and more.
Housewares & Appliances Glossary

Interior Design Glossary

The Zimmerman House by Frank Lloyd WrightThe Zimmerman House by Frank Lloyd Wright. Photo by J. David Bohl, Courtesy Currier Museum of Art

The vocabulary of design includes specialized words for furnishings, fabrics, paints, and decorative details. In this glossary you'll find definitions for Ceiling Medallion, Finial, MDF, Polyurethane, and more.

Interior Design Glossary

Pool & Patio Glossary

Frey House II. 1963. Albert Frey, architect.Frey House II by Albert Frey. Photo courtesy Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism
Here are the words you need to know when designing a pool, patio, deck, or terrace. Included: Espalier, Pergola, Oxidant, and more.
Pool & Patio Glossary

Reader Submissions: Architecture and Construction Words

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