First Known Use: 1549
Dictionary
cupola
noun cu·po·la \ˈkyü-pə-lə, ÷-ˌlō\
: a rounded roof or part of a roof
: a small structure that is built on top of a roof
Full Definition of CUPOLA
1
a : a rounded vault resting on a usually circular base and forming a roof or a ceiling b : a small structure built on top of a roof
2
: a vertical cylindrical furnace for melting iron in the foundry that has tuyeres and tapping spouts near the bottom
3
: a raised observation post in the roof of a railroad caboose
— cu·po·laed \-ləd, ÷-ˌlōd\ adjective
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Origin of CUPOLA
Italian, from Latin cupula, diminutive of cupa tub
Other Railroad Terms
CUPOLA Defined for Kids
cupola
noun cu·po·la \ˈkyü-pə-lə\
Definition of CUPOLA for Kids
1
: a small structure built on top of a roof
2
: a rounded roof or ceiling : dome
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