Gradine

/ɡræˈdiːn/ noun

Definition

A variant spelling of gradin; a step or tier in architecture, particularly in churches or amphitheaters.

Etymology

Alternative spelling of 'gradin,' from the same Latin root 'gradus.' Both spellings were used interchangeably in English architectural terminology from the 16th century onward.

Kelly Says

The spelling 'gradine' vs 'gradin' shows how French and Italian architectural terms competed in English—different regions and builders preferred different versions, but they meant the exact same thing.

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