alette

noun

variants or allette
ə-ˈlet,
a-
plural -s
1
Roman & neoclassic archit : the pilasterlike abutment of an arch that is seen on either side of the large engaged column and that carries the entablature
2
: a wing of a building

Word History

Etymology

French alette, from Old French alette, elette small wing, diminutive of ele wing

First Known Use

1816, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of alette was in 1816

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near alette

Cite this Entry

“Alette.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alette. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!