Usually in pl.; also in L. form, with pl. -a. [ad. L. antefīx-um subst. use of pa. pple. of ante-fīg-ĕre to fix in front.] Ornamental tiles or other work on the eaves and cornices of ancient buildings, to conceal the ends of the tiles; also ornamental heads of animals, etc., making the spouts from the gutters.
1832. Gell, Pompeiana, I. viii. 174. Like the eaves of external roofs, with its ornamental antefixes.
1850. Leitch, Müller’s Anc. Art, § 249. Inverted antefixa or corner-ornaments of ancient sarcophagi are frequently to be found as decorations of pillars.
