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Arch
An arch is a curved structure spanning an opening. In a round arch the structure is semi-circular, and in a pointed arch the sides are less tightly curved, and meet at the top of the arch in a point. These are the most commonly-encountered forms of arch in church buildings.
In a masonry or brick arch the stones forming it are usually wedge-shaped, and are known as voussoirs. In a round arch the voussoir at the top is known as the keystone. Wedge-shaped stones or bricks can also be used to form a flat arch, which sometimes takes the place of a lintol, at the head of a window or door opening.
Related Words
Lintol, lintel
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