stereobate
/ˈstɛrɪə(ʊ)beɪt
/ /ˈstɪərɪə(ʊ)beɪt/noun Architecture
A solid mass of masonry serving as a foundation for a wall or row of columns.The monument is established on the round stereobate with four steps - the sign of four ends of the world....
- The Ionic Order is quite similar to the Doric; it consists of the three steps, stereobate and stylobate.
- The stereobate sits at the bottom and arches onto the third floor.
Origin
Mid 19th century: from French stéréobate, via Latin from Greek stereobatēs, from Greek stereos 'solid' + batēs 'base' (from bainein 'to walk').