Arch
/ɑːtʃ/
Definitions
3 meaningsA curved structure spanning an opening, typically supporting the weight above.
/ɑːtʃ/
A curved structure
The Roman aqueduct was supported by many arches.
💡 Simply: A curved bridge or doorway.
More Examples
The doorway was framed by a graceful arch.
How It's Used
"The bridge featured a magnificent stone arch."
"The artist skillfully rendered the arch in her painting."
Chief, principal, or main.
/ɑːtʃ/
Chief or principal
The arch enemy was finally defeated.
💡 Simply: Most important.
More Examples
She is the arch rival of the champion.
How It's Used
"The arch villain plotted his revenge."
To form or cause to form into an arch.
/ɑːrtʃ/
To form an arch
The cat arched its back.
💡 Simply: To make into an arch.
More Examples
The bridge arched gracefully over the river.
How It's Used
"The workers arched the bricks to create a keystone."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
arch your back
To curve your back.
"She arched her back in pain."
From Old English *arce, from Proto-Germanic *arkaz, from Proto-Indo-European *h₂erkwos.
The word 'arch' has been used to describe curved structures since Old English.
Memory tip
Think of a rainbow – its shape is an arch.
Word Origin
"to bend"