noun

plinth

/plɪnθ/ · say it: PLINTH

the base or platform on which a structure sits

In Architecture & Design

In more detail

1. (noun) a flat base or platform on which a column, statue, or building stands

2. (noun) a strip of material (such as wood or stone) that runs along the bottom of a wall where it meets the floor

Examples

1. The statue was mounted on a marble plinth.
2. The plinth around the room was painted white to match the skirting board.

How to use plinth

Plinth refers to either the architectural base supporting a structure (columns, statues) or the protective trim at the base of interior walls. In British English, it commonly describes the skirting board; in American English, the base of a column or statue is more typical. The term is mainly architectural and formal.

Common phrases

plinth stone
plinth course
marble plinth
decorative plinth
plinth board
at the plinth

Synonyms

base · pedestal · foundation · base board · skirting board

Word family

plinthic

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse plinth with the entire base structure rather than just the trim or platform element—plinth specifically refers to the decorative or functional band, not the foundation below it.

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