Architecture Terms

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Date:

Instructions: Test your knowledge of architectural styles, elements, and vocabulary

1.
In architecture, what is a 'flying buttress'?
A
A movable wall inside a building
B
An arched exterior support that transfers the thrust of a roof to an outer pier
C
A decorative roof ornament
D
A type of revolving door
2.
What is a 'cupola' in architecture?
A
A small dome or dome-like structure on top of a building
B
A window frame
C
An underground chamber
D
A type of column
3.
What does 'facade' mean in architectural terms?
A
The interior layout
B
The front face or exterior of a building
C
The foundation
D
The back of a building
4.
In architecture, what is a 'gargoyle'?
A
A carved stone figure that serves as a water spout on a building
B
A glass window
C
A metal railing
D
A type of garden
5.
What is a 'nave' in a church?
A
The bell tower
B
The entrance porch
C
The main central area where the congregation sits
D
The altar area
6.
What does 'cantilever' mean in architecture?
A
A type of staircase
B
A beam or structure anchored at only one end, projecting into space
C
A decorative ceiling
D
A type of brick pattern
7.
In architecture, what is a 'portico'?
A
A porch with a roof supported by columns, leading to the entrance
B
An interior courtyard
C
A small window
D
A type of flooring
8.
What is a 'dormer' on a building?
A
A type of chimney
B
A window that projects vertically from a sloping roof
C
A bedroom
D
A basement entrance
9.
What does 'Art Deco' refer to in architecture?
A
A rustic farmhouse style
B
A minimalist modern style
C
Ancient Roman style
D
A decorative style from the 1920s-1930s featuring geometric patterns and bold colors
10.
In architecture, what is a 'parapet'?
A
An underground tunnel
B
A type of window
C
A small park
D
A low wall along the edge of a roof, balcony, or bridge
11.
What is a 'clerestory' in architecture?
A
A clock tower
B
A storage closet
C
A type of staircase
D
A high section of wall with windows above adjacent rooflines to admit light
12.
What does 'fenestration' refer to in architecture?
A
The foundation structure
B
Festival decorations
C
The arrangement and design of windows and doors in a building
D
Fencing around a property
13.
In architecture, what is a 'corbel'?
A
A type of garden
B
A bracket of stone, wood, or metal projecting from a wall to support weight
C
A circular window
D
A decorative floor tile
14.
What is a 'transom' in architecture?
A
A transformer room
B
A horizontal bar or window above a door or larger window
C
A type of beam
D
A transit corridor
15.
What does 'Gothic' architecture typically feature?
A
Domed ceilings and columns
B
Flat roofs and simple lines
C
Log cabin construction
D
Pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses

Answer Key

Question 1

B. An arched exterior support that transfers the thrust of a roof to an outer pier

Question 2

A. A small dome or dome-like structure on top of a building

Question 3

B. The front face or exterior of a building

Question 4

A. A carved stone figure that serves as a water spout on a building

Question 5

C. The main central area where the congregation sits

Question 6

B. A beam or structure anchored at only one end, projecting into space

Question 7

A. A porch with a roof supported by columns, leading to the entrance

Question 8

B. A window that projects vertically from a sloping roof

Question 9

D. A decorative style from the 1920s-1930s featuring geometric patterns and bold colors

Question 10

D. A low wall along the edge of a roof, balcony, or bridge

Question 11

D. A high section of wall with windows above adjacent rooflines to admit light

Question 12

C. The arrangement and design of windows and doors in a building

Question 13

B. A bracket of stone, wood, or metal projecting from a wall to support weight

Question 14

B. A horizontal bar or window above a door or larger window

Question 15

D. Pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses

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