1. Plural of atlas; male figures used as supporting columns in architecture, equivalent to caryatids (female figures).
Usage: architecture; formal
2. Plural of atlas; books or collections of maps.
Usage: common usage

Examples

• The grand entrance was supported by impressive atlantes carved from marble.
• The museum's collection includes several Renaissance atlantes depicting mythological scenes.
• Architectural students studied the atlantes on the classical building's façade.
• The library acquired three historical atlantes from the 18th century.
• These atlantes serve both a structural and decorative purpose in the design.