PERISTYLE

Per″i‐style (?), n. [[L. peristylum, Gr. περίστυλον, περίστυλοσ; περί about + στυ̑λοσ a column: cf. F. péristyle.]] (Arch.) A range of columns with their entablature, etc.; specifically, a complete system of columns, whether on all sides of a court, or surrounding a building, such as the cella of a temple. Used in the former sense, it gives name to the larger and inner court of a Roman dwelling, the peristyle. See Colonnade.