arch

[[t]ɑ͟ː(r)tʃ[/t]]

arches, arching, arched

1) N-COUNT An arch is a structure that is curved at the top and is supported on either side by a pillar, post, or wall.

2) N-COUNT An arch is a curved line or movement.

Syn:

arc

3) N-COUNT The arch of your foot is the curved section at the bottom in the middle.

4) V-ERG If you arch a part of your body such as your back or if it arches, you bend it so that it forms a curve.

[V n] Don't arch your back, keep your spine straight. [Also V]

5) V-ERG If you arch your eyebrows, you move them upwards as a way of showing surprise or disapproval. [LITERARY]

[V n] `Oh really?' he said, arching an eyebrow. [Also V]

Syn:

raise

6) VERB If something arches in a particular direction, it makes a curved line or movement.

[V adv/prep] I gazed up at the domed ceiling arching overhead.

7) ADJ-GRADED: usu ADJ n An arch look is mysterious and mischievous.

Both of them looked at him with that curious, slightly amused and even arch expression.

Derived words:

archly ADV-GRADED

She looked at me rather archly.

8) ADJ-GRADED (disapproval) If you say that someone is arch, you are criticizing them for talking or behaving as if they are better or more important than other people.

Their attempts to be casual have so far just looked arch or patronising.

Syn:

superior

Derived words:

archly ADV-GRADED

`You can't fool me,' Shirley said archly.

9) → See also arched