architrave

[ ahr-ki-treyv ]

/ ˈɑr kɪˌtreɪv /

the lowermost member of a classical entablature, resting originally upon columns.

a molded or decorated band framing a panel or an opening, especially a rectangular one, as of a door or window.

Origin of architrave

1555–65; Middle French < Italian; see archi-, trave¹

ar·chi·tra·val, adjective ar·chi·traved, adjective

The columns support an entablature with its frieze and cornice, but the architrave is wanting.

Sketches from the Subject and Neighbour Lands of Venice |Edward A. Freeman
At the top of each side, under the architrave, the name of the wind is inscribed in Greek characters.

A History of Inventions, Discoveries, and Origins, Volume II (of 2) |Johann Beckman
Passing under this archway into the Via Mazzanti is a lovely old fountain bearing the date of 1478 on the architrave.

The Story of Verona |Alethea Wiel
Above the frieze there is another narrow strip, or tenia, like that upon the architrave.

A History of Art for Beginners and Students |Clara Erskine Clement

It gives, however, a greater appearance of constructive repose to the architrave than the latter would have without it.

A History of Art in Ancient Egypt, Vol. II (of 2) |Georges Perrot

architrave

/ (ˈɑːkɪˌtreɪv) /

the lowest part of an entablature that bears on the columns

a moulding around a doorway, window opening, etc

C16: via French from Italian, from archi- + trave beam, from Latin trabs