# edifice

/ˈɛdəfəs/ (US) · /ˈɛdɪfɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/edifice
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a large, impressive building or structure. It can also mean a strong system of ideas or beliefs that supports a society.

For teachers: a large, impressive building or structure; by extension, a complex system of ideas or beliefs that supports a social or political order.

## Examples

- The city's skyline is dominated by a massive stone edifice.
- The government built a new edifice to house the national museum of history.
- The philosopher argued that the collapse of the old edifice was necessary for the emergence of a more equitable social contract.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.