stele

Definition

An upright (or formerly upright) slab containing engraved or painted decorations or inscriptions; a stela.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek στήλη (stḗlē, “upright rock; pillar; column”), plural form στῆλαι (stêlai). Doublet of stela.

Example Sentences

• "A superior class of members...had their names inscribed upon a marble stélé or column."
• "It appears, that when any one of the family died, a stelè to his memory was added to the tomb."
• "In Egypt [obelisks] belonged to the class of steles (commemorative pillars)."