A spire is a decorative vertical element which is generally not occupiable. It may be solid or hollow, ranging from a pole or a beam to a narrow pyramid or cone. Although spires are usually sharp, a blunt shaft can also count as a spire. Steeples which narrow at the top generally count as spires (but are not the top element when they support a cross, for example).

A spire can be solid or hollow and need not end in a sharp point. A blunt shaft can meet the definition.

A higher emblem, such as a cross, becomes the top element when it rises above the spire. The spire's presence does not override that higher architectural point.