Arch: meaning, definitions and examples

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arch

 

[ ษ‘หrtสƒ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

historical

A curved symmetrical structure spanning an opening and typically supporting the weight of a bridge, roof, or wall above it.

Synonyms

curve, span, vault

Examples of usage

  • The arch of the bridge was a remarkable feat of engineering.
  • She walked through the grand arch of the cathedral.
  • The arch of the doorway was beautifully carved.
  • The ancient aqueduct featured many stone arches.
  • The Roman aqueducts were known for their impressive arches.
Context #2 | Noun

anatomy

A curved structure resembling an arch, such as the arch of the foot.

Synonyms

bend, bow, curve

Examples of usage

  • She had high arches in her feet.
  • The doctor recommended orthotics for her high arches.
  • His arches caused him pain when standing for long periods.
  • The podiatrist examined the patient's arches.
  • The arch of the foot provides support and flexibility.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To make a deliberate and unfair use of one's position or power to achieve a goal.

Synonyms

abuse, exploit, manipulate

Examples of usage

  • He tried to arch his way into a promotion.
  • She arches her way to the top by manipulating others.
  • The politician was known for arching his way through scandals.
  • The CEO arches his way through the competition.
  • Stop trying to arch your way into getting what you want.

Translations

Translations of the word "arch" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น arco

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค•เคฎเคพเคจ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Bogen

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ busur

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฐั€ะบะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ ล‚uk

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅผ“

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท arc

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ arco

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท yay

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ํ™œ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู‚ูˆุณ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ oblouk

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ oblรบk

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅผ“

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ lok

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ bogi

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะดะพา“ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ›แƒจแƒ•แƒ˜แƒšแƒ“แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ yay

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ arco

Etymology

The word 'arch' traces its origins back to Middle English, ultimately derived from the Old French word 'arche', which came from the Latin 'arcus' meaning 'bow' or 'arch'. The architectural sense of 'arch' emerged in the 13th century, referring to a curved structure supporting weight. Over time, the term expanded to include various symbolic and metaphorical meanings. In anatomy, 'arch' has been used since the 16th century to describe curved structures like the arch of the foot. The verb sense of 'arch' as manipulating or exploiting dates back to the early 20th century.

See also: arched, archery, arching, architect, parch.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,271 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.