Definition

1. Noun:
   • A blunt pointed arch drawn from two centers within the span: In architecture, a "drop arch" is a type of pointed arch. It is characterized by its shape, which is less acute (blunter) than a typical Gothic arch. This shape is created by drawing the arch's curves from two center points located within the horizontal span of the arch itself, rather than at or beyond its springing line.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The church's side entrance features a simple drop arch.
  • Drop arches were commonly used in certain periods of English Gothic architecture.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Description: The defining feature of a drop arch is the location of its centers. For a standard equilateral pointed arch, the centers are located on the springing line. For a drop arch, these centers are dropped the springing line, inside the span, resulting in a wider, more depressed curve.

Variants and Related Words

• Pointed arch (n): A general term for any arch with a pointed crown, of which the drop arch is one specific type.
• Lancet arch (n): A tall, narrow, sharply pointed arch, contrasting with the blunter drop arch.
• Equilateral arch (n): A pointed arch where the radii are equal to the span, creating sides that form an equilateral triangle.

Synonyms

• Depressed arch: This term is sometimes used interchangeably with "drop arch," emphasizing its flattened, wide appearance.

Related Phrases

• Four-centered arch: A related arch type also drawn from multiple centers, often creating a similar blunt point, but typically with four centers instead of two.

Noun

1. a blunt pointed arch drawn from two centers within the span