arch

Pronunciation: /ɑɹt͡ʃ/

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B1 — Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a curved shape in the vertical plane that spans an opening
  2. noun a curved bony structure supporting or enclosing organs (especially the inner sides of the feet)
  3. noun a passageway under a curved masonry construction

Etymology

From Middle English arch, arche, from Old French arche (“an arch”), a feminine form of arc, from Latin arcus (“a bow, arc, arch”). Doublet of arc and arco. Displaced native Old English bīeġels and Old English hwealf.

In classic literature

Semantic network

Broader (hypernyms)
curve

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