pylon
PY-lon
/ˈpaɪlɒn/
A tall tower-like structure used for carrying electricity cables or as a support for a bridge or a large building.
In the UK, it usually refers to electricity towers; in the US, it often refers to traffic cones or bridge supports.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'pylon,' meaning a gateway. It originally referred to the massive, sloping towers flanking the entrances to ancient Egyptian temples.
Word relationships
- tower: Tower is general; pylon usually implies a specific functional support role.
Commonly confused with
- post: A post is small and simple; a pylon is a large engineered structure.
Collocations
- electricity pylon
- suspension pylon
- steel pylon
Example sentences
- "High-voltage lines were suspended between massive steel pylons." Infrastructure
- "The suspension bridge's cables are anchored to two 200-meter pylons." Bridge Engineering
Memory hook
A pylon looks like a giant 'Y' standing on the 'lawn.' Tall support tower.
When not to use
Don't use for a simple telephone pole; a pylon is much larger and usually made of steel lattice.
Fun facts
- The word was first used in English to describe the monumental gateways of Egyptian temples before being applied to modern steel towers.
Related words
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