1. A sculpted female figure used as a supporting column in a building, especially in classical Greek architecture.
Usage: architecture; often used in plural form 'caryatids'

Examples

• The ancient Greek temple featured elegant caryatids supporting the roof of the portico.
• The architect incorporated caryatids into the neoclassical building's facade.
• Unlike plain columns, caryatids add sculptural beauty while serving a structural purpose.
• The museum's entrance was decorated with marble caryatids carved in the classical style.
• Caryatids have been a popular architectural element since ancient times.