arch 1
(ärch)
(ärch)n.
1. A usually curved structure forming the upper edge of an open space and supporting the weight above it, as in a bridge or doorway.
2. A structure, such as a freestanding monument, shaped like an inverted U.
3. A curve with the ends down and the middle up:the arch of a raised eyebrow.
4. Anatomy An organ or structure having a curved or bowlike appearance, especially either of two arched sections of the bony structure of the foot.
v.arched, arch·ing, arch·es
v.tr.
1. To provide with an arch:arch a passageway.
2. To cause to form an arch or similar curve.
3. To bend backward:The dancers alternately arched and hunched their backs.
4. To span:"the rude bridge that arched the flood"(Ralph Waldo Emerson).
v.intr.
To form an arch or archlike curve:The high fly ball arched toward the stands.
[Middle English, fromOld Frencharche, fromVulgar Latin*arca, fromLatinarcus.]
arch1semicircular arch
A. keystone
B. voussoirs
C. springers
D. imposts