Cupola: meaning, definitions and examples

A cupola refers to a small, dome-like structure on top of a building, often used for letting in light or air. It is commonly seen in architectural designs on top of a roof.

• The mansion features a beautiful cupola that adds a classical touch to its design

A dome is a rounded vault forming the roof of a building or structure, typically with a circular base. Domes are commonly used in religious, governmental, or monumental buildings.

• The cathedral's massive dome can be seen from miles away

A lantern in architecture is a small structure with windows that crowns a dome or roof, allowing light to enter the space below. It can also refer to a portable lighting device, but in this context, it's architectural.

• The tower's lantern glows beautifully at night, casting light over the surroundings

A skylight is a window installed in a roof or ceiling, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior of the building. Skylights are often used in modern homes and commercial buildings to increase natural light.

• Installing a skylight in the kitchen made the room much brighter and more welcoming

Cupola is often used in architecture to describe a small, rounded structure on top of a building, such as a bell tower or an observatory. It's common in classical and Renaissance architecture.

• The old church has a beautiful cupola that can be seen from miles away.
• They added a cupola to the roof of the new library for better ventilation.

Vaulted roof is used to describe a roof that arches upwards, creating a space underneath. This term is often seen in contexts related to Gothic or medieval architecture. It suggests a sense of height and often adds to the acoustic quality of a building.

• The cathedral boasts a stunning vaulted roof supported by stone columns.
• The medieval castle had a vaulted roof in the main hall, adding to its majestic atmosphere.

Domed ceiling refers specifically to the interior ceiling that is shaped like a dome. It is used when talking about the inside structure of a building, particularly in grand halls or churches.

• The hall's domed ceiling was painted with intricate frescoes.
• Visitors were awed by the domed ceiling of the concert hall.

Dome is a broad term for a rounded, hemispherical roof structure. It is frequently used in religious and governmental buildings to give an impression of grandeur. Domes can be large or small and are often used in modern architecture as well.

• St. Peter's Basilica has one of the most magnificent domes in the world.
• The dome of the Capitol Building is an iconic symbol of Washington, D.C.