1. Plural of exedra; semicircular or rectangular recessed areas in ancient Greek and Roman buildings, typically used as meeting places or for displaying sculptures.
Usage: architecture; classical antiquity; formal/academic

Examples

• The Roman forum featured several exedrae where citizens could gather and discuss public matters.
• Archaeologists discovered marble benches in the exedrae of the ancient gymnasium.
• The architect designed exedrae into the building's courtyard for contemplative seating areas.
• Statues were prominently displayed in the exedrae of the temple complex.
• The exedrae provided shaded spaces for philosophers to teach their students.