1
: building
especially
: a large or massive structure
2
: a large abstract structure
holds together the social edifice—
R. H. Tawney
R. H. Tawney
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
Boasting exquisite gardens, sprawling estates, and history around every corner, these 20 magnificent edifices have been transformed into accommodations suitable for the present-day traveler.
—Allix Cott, Architectural Digest, 18 Oct. 2024
Forty years ago, when the Reagan White House was pulling down a regulatory edifice that industry resented, the Supreme Court was happy to have judges defer to the agencies participating in that project, including Anne Gorsuch’s EPA.
—Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2024
The work calls for climbing any manner of tall objects and edifices – frequently flagpoles but also towers, smokestacks and even the occasional cross – to install, repair, paint, maintain or inspect them.
—Jorge L. Ortiz, USA TODAY, 2 Nov. 2024
The nature of the academic process naturally favors building on the existing edifice of theory instead of starting over, on fresh ground.
—Steve Denning, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for edifice 
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Allix Cott, Architectural Digest, 18 Oct. 2024
Forty years ago, when the Reagan White House was pulling down a regulatory edifice that industry resented, the Supreme Court was happy to have judges defer to the agencies participating in that project, including Anne Gorsuch’s EPA.
—Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2024
The work calls for climbing any manner of tall objects and edifices – frequently flagpoles but also towers, smokestacks and even the occasional cross – to install, repair, paint, maintain or inspect them.
—Jorge L. Ortiz, USA TODAY, 2 Nov. 2024
The nature of the academic process naturally favors building on the existing edifice of theory instead of starting over, on fresh ground.
—Steve Denning, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for edifice
Cite this Entry
“Edifice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/edifice. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
edifice
noun
ed·i·fice
ˈed-ə-fəs 
: building sense 1
especially
: a large or impressive building (as a church)
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