dentil

noun

den·​til ˈden-tᵊl How to pronounce dentil (audio)
-ˌtil
: one of a series of small projecting rectangular blocks forming a molding especially under a cornice
dentiled
ˈden-tᵊld How to pronounce dentil (audio)
-ˌtild
adjective

Illustration of dentil

Illustration of dentil
  • dentil D

Examples of dentil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some have stripes of rough stone, others have rows of dentil molding. — Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 7 Oct. 2025 The column and dentil moldings were probably added to the house in the early 1900s. — Dan Shaw, Martha Stewart, 8 June 2026 Classical ornamentation like cornices, dentils, and block modillions are common to the facade, according to Reggev. — Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 July 2024 For instance, the main drawing room was part of the original building, and Byrne and her team reinstated the delicate dentil molding and restored the original fireplace to perfection. — Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

obsolete French dentille, from Middle French, diminutive of dent

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dentil was in 1663

Rhymes for dentil

See All Rhymes for dentil

Browse Nearby Words

dentifrice
dentil
dentilabial
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dentil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dentil. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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