The term that denotes the characteristic of Greek ornament is what?

• A. Anthemion
• B. Acroterion
• C. Apotheca
• D. Refectory

Answer: (A)

Greek ornament is often built around recognizable floral and geometric motifs, and one of the most emblematic is anthemion. Anthemion is a stylized floral pattern, typically a radiating cluster of petals or a palmette, resembling a honeysuckle bloom. It appears repeatedly on classical architecture—friezes, cornices, capitals—so it clearly signals the Greek decorative language. That association with a radiating floral form makes it the hallmark term for Greek ornament.

Acroterion, in contrast, is the ornament placed on the apex of a pediment or at the corners of a roof, not a general sign of Greek ornament; apotheca is a storehouse, and refectory is a dining hall. Thus anthemion best fits the idea of a characteristic Greek decorative motif.