The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 4th Edition
n. A decorated ceiling.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
n. In architecture, the ceiling of a room, whether flat or arched; also, the under side of the projection of the larmier of a cornice, and generally any soffit.
Word Usage
"When the religious response moves from condemning a rhetorical tactic to condemning the very act of criticism -- as if the notion of faith falls under some arbitrary plafond of immunity -- fair discourse is effectively blocked."