What is the term for a roof that has two slopes on each side, commonly found in traditional architecture?

The term for a roof that features two slopes on each side, often found in traditional architecture, is gable. A gable roof is characterized by its triangular shape, created by two sloping planes that meet at a peak, which provides effective water drainage and can contribute to good ventilation in the attic space. This design is not only functional but also adds a distinct aesthetic quality to many types of buildings.

While other roof types such as flat, hip, and mansard also exist, they do not share the same architectural characteristics as a gable roof. Flat roofs are typically horizontal and can be found in modern designs, hip roofs have slopes on all sides and are often used in areas with significant wind or snow loads, and mansard roofs feature a double slope that creates a flat or low-pitched top, but none offer the same two-sloped appearance as gable roofs. This distinction makes gable the most appropriate term in the context of the question.