plural arches
1
: a usually curved part of a structure that is over an opening and that supports a wall or other weight above the opening
2
: the raised area on the bottom of the foot that is formed by a curved section of bones
3
: something that has a curved shape
There was a slight arch to her eyebrows.
an arch in the cat's back
arches; arched; arching
: to bend into the shape of an arch : curve
She arched her arm/back/neck.
The cat arched its back.
She arched her eyebrows in surprise.
A tree arches over the road.
She arched backward to begin the exercise.
: having or showing an amused feeling of being superior to or knowing more than other people
an arch look
a politician known for his arch humor
The novel is never mocking or arch in its tone.
Cite this Entry
“Arch.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/arch. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
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