Definition

1. Noun:
   • The interior curve of an arch: The inner, concave surface or curve of an arch, vault, or similar architectural structure.

Usage

• The term "intrados" is a technical architectural term used to describe a specific part of an arch's geometry. It is the opposite of the "extrados," which is the exterior curve. It is used in contexts involving architecture, engineering, and construction.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The intricate carvings were concentrated on the intrados of the cathedral's main archway.
  • To calculate the load distribution, the engineer carefully measured the curvature of the arch's intrados.

Advanced Usage

• "Intrados" in structural analysis: Refers to the surface under compression in a typical masonry arch.
  • The stress on the intrados of the ancient Roman aqueduct was carefully assessed during the restoration.

Variants and Related Words

• Extrados (n): The exterior curve or upper surface of an arch.
• Soffit (n): In architecture, this can be a broader term for the underside of any construction element (like an arch, balcony, or beam); the intrados is specifically the soffit of an arch.

Synonyms

• Inner curve: A descriptive, non-technical synonym.
• Concave surface: Describes the shape of the intrados.

Antonyms

• Extrados: The exterior, convex curve of an arch.

Noun

1. the interior curve of an arch