portico

Definition

A porch, or a small space with a roof supported by columns, serving as the entrance to a building.

Etymology

From Italian portico, from Latin porticus (“porch”), from porta (“gate”). Doublet of porch, portego, and porticus.

Example Sentences

• "The amphitheatre hath two portici as that at Niſmes."
• "The great house itself was a large, white, wooden building, with wings on three sides of it. In front, a large portico, extending the entire length of the building, and supported by a long range of columns, gave to the whole establishment an air of solemn grandeur."
• "The long-closed G.W.R. station alongside has a decidedly derelict-looking frontage, with eight gargoyles or figureheads still clinging to the portico."