Cupola \Cu"po*la\ (k?"p?-l?), n.; pl. {Cupolas} (-l?z). [It.
cupola, LL. cupula, cuppula (cf. L. cupula little tub). fr.
cupa, cuppa, cup; cf. L. cupa tub. So called on account of
its resemblance to a cup turned over. See {Cup}, and cf.
{Cupule}.]
1. (Arch.) A roof having a rounded form, hemispherical or
nearly so; also, a ceiling having the same form. When on a
large scale it is usually called {dome}.

2. A small structure standing on the top of a dome; a
lantern.

3. A furnace for melting iron or other metals in large
quantity, -- used chiefly in foundries and steel works.

4. A revolving shot-proof turret for heavy ordnance.

5. (Anat.) The top of the spire of the cochlea of the ear.