entasis

[ en-tuh-sis ]

/ ˈɛn tə sɪs /

a slight convexity given to a column or tower, as to correct an optical illusion.

Origin of entasis

1745–55; < Greek, equivalent to enta- (variant stem of enteínein to stretch tight, equivalent to en- en-² + teínein to stretch) + -sis -sis

The Ionic column, thus made of greater proportional height, had diminution and entasis like the Doric.

History of Ancient Art |Franz von Reber
This entasis was surrounded by a row of leaves, again characterizing the ascending bundle as stems.

History of Ancient Art |Franz von Reber
The powerful shafts were doubly modified by the diminution and by the entasis.

History of Ancient Art |Franz von Reber
The entasis was entirely decided by such optical considerations.

History of Ancient Art |Franz von Reber

The shaft is well shaped, with a moderate swelling (entasis).

Pompeii, Its Life and Art |August Mau

entasis

/ (ˈɛntəsɪs) /

a slightly convex curve given to the shaft of a column, pier, or similar structure, to correct the illusion of concavity produced by a straight shaft

Also called: entasia (ɛnˈteɪzɪə) physiol an involuntary or spasmodic muscular contraction

C18: from Greek, from enteinein to stretch tight, from teinein to stretch