1. Plural of echinus; sea urchins, especially those of the genus Echinus.
Usage: zoology; marine biology
2. In architecture, a rounded molding at the base of a column, typically in classical orders.
Usage: architecture; classical

Examples

• The marine biologist collected several echinuses from the rocky tide pools.
• Sea urchins, or echinuses, are covered with sharp spines for protection.
• The Doric column featured a prominent echinus between the shaft and the abacus.
• Echinuses are common inhabitants of shallow coastal waters.
• The architect studied the proportions of classical echinuses in ancient Greek temples.