Dictionary

stela en · NOUN

Pronunciation

• /ˈstiːlə/

Etymology

From Latin stēla, from Ancient Greek στήλη (stḗlē). Doublet of stele.

Meanings

1. An obelisk or upright stone pillar, usually as a primitive commemoration or gravestone.
   • He erected a stela, with an inscription in the sacred character, to commemorate his successes. 1837, J. G. Wilkinson, Manners & Customs of the Anc. Egyptians, I ii 101:
   • A shore excursion had been arranged for the passengers who were interested in visiting the stelae of San Ignacio. 1966, Paul Bowles, Up Above the World:
   • In the courts of the houses lie many round stelæ, or pillars, once placed on the graves of the Athenians. 1776, R. Chandler, Trav. Greece, VIII 35:
   • Thothmes I. set up two stelæ near the Euphrates. 1893, E. A. T. W. Budge, Mummy, section 30:
   • The upright blocks or stelas are among the most curious parts of the present ruin. 1876, S. Manning, Land of Pharaohs, section 203:

Forms

Synonyms

stele