Peristyle

[peristail]

Definition

(noun.) a colonnade surrounding a building or enclosing a court.

Checked by Blanchard--From WordNet

Definition

(n.) A range of columns with their entablature, etc.; specifically, a complete system of columns, whether on all sides of a court, or surrounding a building, such as the cella of a temple. Used in the former sense, it gives name to the larger and inner court of a Roman dwelling, the peristyle. See Colonnade.

Typist: Nigel

Definition

n. a range of columns round a building or round a square: a court square &c. with columns all round.—adj. Peristy′lar.

Editor: Stanton