an arch

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A curved structure that spans an opening and supports weight above it, often made of stone or brick.

   Grammar: Countable: use 'an arch' for one, 'arches' for more than one. Often followed by 'of' to show what it is made of or what it supports.

   Patterns

   • an arch of something
   • an arch over something
   • build an arch

   The old bridge has three stone arches.

   They walked through an arch into the courtyard.

   The arch supports the weight of the roof.

2. 2nouncountabletechnical

   Something shaped like a curve, especially the raised part of the foot or a curved part of the body.

   Grammar: Countable: often used in the plural 'arches' for the curved parts of the feet.

   Patterns

   • the arch of the foot
   • high arches
   • the arch of the back

   She has high arches, so she needs special shoes.

   The arch of the foot helps absorb shock when you walk.

Word forms

Common combinations

stone arch

The stone arch has stood for centuries.

arch bridge

An arch bridge can carry heavy loads.

archway

We passed under the archway into the garden.

triumphal arch

The triumphal arch was built to honor the general.

Synonyms and how they differ

curve

A curve is a general bend or line; an arch is specifically a curved structure that supports weight, often in buildings.

vault

A vault is an arched roof or ceiling, especially in a large space; an arch is the basic curved shape or structure.

Word family

arched adjective

Curved like an arch; e.g., 'an arched doorway'.

archway noun

A passage under an arch.

Commonly confused: an arch or arc?

Practice

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