What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cornice
Example
The cornice on the building was intricately carved and added to its grandeur. [cornice: noun]
Example
The cornice of the roof provided shade and shelter from the rain. [cornice: noun]
molding
Example
The molding around the doorframe added elegance to the room. [molding: noun]
Example
She spent hours sanding and painting the molding to match the rest of the room. [molding: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Molding is more commonly used than cornice in everyday language. Molding is a versatile term that covers a wide range of decorative elements, while cornice is a more specific term that refers to a particular type of decorative molding.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cornice and molding?
Both cornice and molding can be used in formal and informal contexts, but cornice may be associated with a more formal or traditional style of architecture and design.
