—arch /ɑːtʃ/ aep /ɑːrtʃ/
adjective
► F0 showing that you think it is funny that you know more about something than someone else does: » an arch tone of voiceThesaurus+: ↑Affected and insincerearchly /ˈɑːtʃli/ aep /ˈɑːrtʃli/ adverb► F0» She smiled archly at him.» "I fail to understand what you're suggesting," said Claire archly.Thesaurus+: ↑Affected and insincere
noun [C]
C2 a structure, consisting of a curved top on two supports, that holds the weight of something above it:
» In many churches the side aisles are separated from the central aisle by a row of arches.» Passing through the arch, you enter an open courtyard.→ SEE ALSO ARCHWAY(Cf. ↑archway)Thesaurus+: ↑Arches, columns and beamsF0 something that has the shape of an arch, often used for decoration
Thesaurus+: ↑Geometrical shapes , ↑Spherical, circular and annular objectsF0 the raised curve on the bottom of your foot:
» She's got very high arches.See picture: arch 
Thesaurus+: ↑The foot
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Extra Examples:» The vines were trained over an arch, providing shade as well as fruit.» The temple's grand white arches rose conspicuously over the dirty decaying city.» The boat floated through the arch of the trees towards the bridge.» The abbey is known for its majestic arches, fine doorways and elegant windows.» The town is dominated by the massive arches of a viaduct.verb [I or T] ↑Verb Endings for arch
► C2 to make the shape of an arch: » Trees arch over the river.» Her eyebrows arched in contempt.» She watched the cat arch its back.Thesaurus+: ↑Bending, twisting and curving