[ped.i.ment] n [alter. of obs. E periment, prob. alter. of E pyramid] (1592) 1: a triangular space that forms the gable of a low-pitched roof and that is usu. filled with relief sculpture in classical architecture; also: a similar form used as a decoration
2: a broad gently sloping bedrock surface with low relief that is situated at the base of a steeper slope and is usu. thinly covered with alluvial gravel and sand -- ped.i.men.tal adj -- ped.i.ment.ed adj