arch
arch1 definition
arch (ärc̸h)
noun
- a curved structure, as of masonry, that supports the weight of material over an open space, as in a bridge, doorway, etc.
- any similar structure, as a monument
- the form of an arch
- anything shaped like an arch; specif., an archlike anatomical part the dental arch, arch of the foot, etc.
Etymology: ME < OFr arche < ML arca < L arcus, arch: see arc
transitive verb
- to provide with an arch or arches
- to cause to take the form of an arch; curve or bend
- to span as an arch
intransitive verb
to form an arch
arch2 definition
arch (ärc̸h)
adjective
- main; chief; principal the arch villain
- clever; crafty
- gaily mischievous; pert an arch look
Etymology: < arch-; with changed meaning because of use in archknave, archrogue
Arch definition
Arch or arch
- archaic
- archipelago
- architecture
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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