arch1

 
Pronunciation: /ɑːtʃ/

noun

  • a curved symmetrical structure spanning an opening and typically supporting the weight of a bridge, roof, or wall above it.
  • an arch forming a monument or ornamental feature: a triumphal arch
  • a shape resembling an arch: the delicate arch of his eyebrows
  • the inner side of the foot: the muscles in the arch of my right foot suddenly seized up

verb

[no object, with adverbial of place]
  • have the curved shape of an arch: a beautiful bridge that arched over a canal
  • form or cause to form the curved shape of an arch: [no object]: her eyebrows arched in surprise [with object]: she arched her back

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French arche, based on Latin arcus 'bow'