An ornamental molding or cyma used in classical architecture, characterized by a wavy profile that curves in an S-shape.
From French 'cimaise' derived from Latin 'cyma' (wave-like curve, young shoot). The term describes the molding's resemblance to a wave or organic scroll, borrowed from classical Greek and Roman architecture.
That fancy wavy molding you see on old buildings is basically architecture's way of mimicking natural curves—the Romans saw waves and plant shoots and thought 'let's make our buildings look organic!'
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.