Plural of echinus; in classical architecture, the rounded molding beneath the abacus of a capital, or referring to sea urchins.
From Latin 'echinus,' derived from Greek 'echinos' (ἐχῖνος) meaning 'hedgehog' or 'sea urchin.' Used both architecturally and zoologically since ancient times.
The architectural echinus was named after the sea urchin because both have rounded, spiky forms—it's a beautiful example of ancient architects finding inspiration in nature and naming building parts after animals!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.