obelisk

noun

obe·​lisk ˈä-bə-ˌlisk How to pronounce obelisk (audio)
 also  ˈō-
1
: an upright 4-sided usually monolithic pillar that gradually tapers as it rises and terminates in a pyramid
2

Illustration of obelisk

Illustration of obelisk
  • obelisk 1

Examples of obelisk 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.
Also check out the seven-block Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic District that includes the Indiana War Memorial & Museum and Veterans Memorial Plaza, known for its 100-foot obelisk and fountain honoring all branches of military service. Matt Alderton, USA Today, 24 May 2025 Two 13-foot-tall obelisks made of black granite now tower over two benches that were also made in Erica Green’s honor, completing a memorial plaza in the park. Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 17 May 2025 Many Wilsons have been laid to rest there, including Hiram, whose grave is marked by a tall obelisk. Jacoba Urist, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 May 2025 The expert found the propaganda, which is supportive of Ramesses II, on the 3,300-year-old obelisk that sits in Paris' Place de la Concorde. Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for obelisk

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin obeliscus "four-sided pillar," borrowed from Greek obelískos "skewer, four-sided pillar," diminutive of obelós "spit, four-sided pillar" — more at obelus

First Known Use

1561, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of obelisk was in 1561

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Cite this Entry

“Obelisk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/obelisk. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

obelisk

noun
obe·​lisk ˈäb-ə-ˌlisk How to pronounce obelisk (audio)
: a four-sided pillar that becomes narrower toward the top and ends in a pyramid

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