edifice

noun

ed·​i·​fice ˈe-də-fəs 

1

: building

especially : a large or massive structure

2

: a large abstract structure

holds together the social edifice

—R. H. Tawney

Synonyms

• cathedral
• hall
• palace
• tower

Examples of edifice in a Sentence

a magnificent edifice with a domed ceiling

the U.S. Capitol is one of our nation's most impressive edifices

Recent Examples on the Web

Built after Emperor Claudius’ death in A.D. 54, the temple was once one of imperial Rome’s most extravagant pagan edifices, whose foundations measured some 600 by 650 feet, more than the area of two football fields. —Tony Perrottet, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Mar. 2025

Yet, for all this progress, the cracks in the 401(k) edifice remain glaring. —Brian Menickella, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025

The brand is also working closely with the Landmark Preservation Commission of NYC to restore the edifice’s iconic facade. —Naomi Rougeau, Robb Report, 19 Mar. 2025

And technological advancements at the state-of-the-art edifice allow Cavil and her team to track each plot from vineyard to bottle. —Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 22 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin aedificium, from aedificare

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

edifice

noun

ed·​i·​fice ˈed-ə-fəs 

: building sense 1

especially : a large or impressive building (as a church)