GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 5 definitions

1.       
   Arch , n. [F. arche, fr. LL. arca, for arcus. See Arc.]
   (Geom.) Any part of a curved line.
   1913 Webster
   (Arch.) (a) Usually a curved member made up of separate wedge-shaped solids, with the joints between them disposed in the direction of the radii of the curve; used to support the wall or other weight above an opening. In this sense arches are segmental, round (i. e., semicircular), or pointed. (b) A flat arch is a member constructed of stones cut into wedges or other shapes so as to support each other without rising in a curve.
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   ☞ Scientifically considered, the arch is a means of spanning an opening by resolving vertical pressure into horizontal or diagonal thrust.
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   Any place covered by an arch; an archway; as, to pass into the arch of a bridge.
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   Any curvature in the form of an arch; as, the arch of the aorta. “Colors of the showery arch.” 
   Milton.
   
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   Triumphal arch, a monumental structure resembling an arched gateway, with one or more passages, erected to commemorate a triumph.
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2.       
   Arch, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Arched ; p. pr. & vb. n. Arching.]
   To cover with an arch or arches.
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   To form or bend into the shape of an arch.
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   The horse arched his neck.
   Charlesworth.
   
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3.       
   Arch, v. i. To form into an arch; to curve.
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4.       
   Arch , a. [See Arch-, pref.]
   Chief; eminent; greatest; principal.
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   The most arch act of piteous massacre.
   Shak.
   
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   Cunning or sly; sportively mischievous; roguish; as, an arch look, word, lad.
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   [He] spoke his request with so arch a leer.
   Tatler.
   
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5.       
   Arch, n. [See Arch-, pref.] A chief. [Obs.]
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   My worthy arch and patron comes to-night.
   Shak.
   
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