ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Buttress

A buttress is like a hug for big buildings or walls. Just like how you might give a friend a hug to help them stand up straight, buttresses are built on the outside of a building or wall to support it and keep it from falling down. They’re like really strong pillars on the outside, and they help spread the weight of the building or wall evenly, so it doesn’t topple over. So, just like how a hug can make someone feel safe and supported, buttresses can make big buildings and walls feel safe and supported too.
Related topics others have asked about: