1. Plural of canephor; figures of maidens or women in ancient Greek art and architecture, typically depicted carrying baskets or other objects on their heads, often used as decorative supports or columns.
Usage: art history; architecture; classical studies

Examples

• The temple's portico was adorned with canephors that served both decorative and structural purposes.
• Ancient Greek architects often employed canephors as an elegant alternative to plain columns.
• The museum's collection includes several marble canephors from the Classical period.
• Canephors appear frequently in Greek vase paintings and relief sculptures.
• The building's entrance featured a row of canephors carrying ceremonial vessels.