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Arc Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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arc

[ɑːrk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

geometry

A part of the circumference of a circle or other curve.

Synonyms

arch, curve, segment.

Examples of usage

  • The sun's rays were refracted by the arc of the rainbow.
  • She drew an arc on the paper using a compass.
Context #2 | Noun

sport

A curved trajectory of a thrown object, especially a ball.

Synonyms

curve, path, trajectory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
arc

Use when describing a part of a circle or something that bends in a circular shape.

  • The rainbow formed a beautiful arc across the sky
  • The ball followed an arc before landing in the goal
trajectory

Typically used in scientific or technical contexts to describe the path of an object in motion, usually in space or air.

  • The trajectory of the rocket was precisely calculated
  • The athlete's career trajectory has been impressive
curve

Best for general descriptions of bends or rounded shapes, especially in roads or graphs.

  • The road curves sharply to the left
  • The graph shows a smooth curve
path

Commonly used to describe a literal or metaphorical route or direction.

  • The garden path was lined with flowers
  • He chose a different career path

Examples of usage

  • The pitcher threw a perfect arc to strike out the batter.
  • The basketball player made a three-point shot with a high arc.
Context #3 | Verb

computing

To move or be shaped like an arc.

Synonyms

bend, bow, curve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
arc

Used to describe a part of a circle or a curved line, often in a technical or mathematical context.

  • The rainbow formed a beautiful arc across the sky
  • The bridge's design features a slight arc to ensure stability
curve

Used to describe a smoothly flowing, continuous bending line without angles, often in geometry or describing shapes.

  • She drew a perfect curve with her compass
  • The road had several gentle curves that made for a pleasant drive
bend

Typically used to describe a change in direction of a line or a road, often implying a smooth turn or a physical act of bending something.

  • The road takes a sharp bend just after the hill
  • Bend the metal bar to fit it into the frame
bow

Commonly used to refer to the action of bending forward at the waist, as a gesture of respect or greeting, or to describe a curved weapon used in archery.

  • He gave a deep bow to the audience after his performance
  • The hunter carried a bow and a quiver full of arrows

Examples of usage

  • The data arc across the screen.
  • The rocket arced through the sky.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'arc'

The word 'arc' has its origins in the Latin word 'arcus', meaning bow or arch. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. The concept of an arc has been used in geometry and mathematics for centuries to describe a part of a curve. In modern usage, 'arc' is commonly associated with curved shapes and trajectories in various fields such as architecture, sports, and computing.

See also: arcane.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,193, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.