Aesthetics: Adjective

Definition: of or relating to art or beauty

Source: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aesthetics?show=0&t=1385186698

In the reading ” The Brooklyn Bridge” by Philip Lopate, the author expresses his feelings towards the bridge by saying ” Aesthetics and tradition both came to the rescue.”

Now that I understand that word I know it meant that the bridge was both tradition and beauty to him.