Orthostates

In the context of classical Greek architecture, orthostates are squared stone blocks much greater in height than depth that are usually built into the lower portion of a wall.

Above a course of orthostates, it is common to lay a course of stones spanning the width of the wall and joining its two faces (a binder course).

[citation needed] The term has been generalized for use in the description of the architecture of many cultures.

In Hittite and Assyrian sculpture, orthostats are often intricately carved.

The term may be used more generally of other upright-standing stones, including megalithic menhirs.