Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tracery

noun

/ˈtrās(ə)rē/

Definition

Tracery refers to the ornamental stonework elements that support the glass in a window or the decorative patterns of stone and wood in architecture.

Examples

The cathedral’s stained glass windows were framed by beautiful tracery that added to their charm.
Architects studied the intricacies of tracery to understand its role in light and shadow within Gothic designs.
She admired the tracery of the church window as the sun illuminated its colorful patterns.

Meaning

The term is often associated with Gothic architecture, where intricate designs create visual effects and enhance the beauty of structures, particularly in windows.