What is "modillion"

Modillion \Mo*dil"lion\, n. [F. modillon, It. modiglione. Cf. Module, n.] (Arch.) The enriched block or horizontal bracket generally found under the cornice of the Corinthian and Composite entablature, and sometimes, less ornamented, in the Ionic and other orders; -- so called because of its arrangement at regulated distances.

n. (context architecture English) A decoratively carved supporting block atop a column.

n. (architecture) one of a set of ornamental brackets under a cornice

A modillion is an ornate bracket, a corbel, underneath a cornice and supporting it, more elaborate than dentils (literally translated as small teeth). All of these words are commonly used as verbs in a historic tense to describe neatly any particular structure, such as a parapet or eaves. They occur classically under a Corinthian or a Composite cornice, but may support any type of eaves cornice. Modillions may be carved or plain.