Cornice

Origin

Perhaps from Latin cornix, 'crow', influenced by Ancient Greek κορωνίς (koronis, "crown").

Full definition of cornice

Noun

1. (architecture)  A horizontal architectural element of a building, projecting forward from the main walls, originally used as a means of directing rainwater away from the building's walls. See also: eaves, fascia.
2. A decorative element applied at the topmost part of the wall of a room, as with a crown moulding.
• 1963, Margery Allingham, The China Governess Chapter 1, The half-dozen pieces … were painted white and carved with festoons of flowers, birds and cupids. …  The bed was the most extravagant piece.  Its graceful cane halftester rose high towards the cornice and was so festooned in carved white wood that the effect was positively insecure, as if the great couch were trimmed with icing sugar.
3. A decorative element at the topmost portion of certain pieces of furniture, as with a highboy.