# obelisk

/ˈɒbəlɪsk/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/obelisk
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a tall, thin stone monument that looks like a pyramid with a flat top. It was often used in ancient Egypt to mark the tombs of kings.

For teachers: a tall, four-sided, tapering monument that ends in a pyramid-like shape. Typically constructed from a single block of stone and associated with ancient Egyptian and Roman architecture.

## Examples

- The ancient obelisk stands in the center of the square.
- Tourists gathered to see the massive granite obelisk that had been transported from Egypt to the city park.
- The towering obelisk served as a sundial and a symbol of the sun god, reflecting the architectural sophistication of the civilization that erected it over three millennia ago.

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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.