arche

1 of 2

noun

ar·​che
ˈärˌkē;
ärˈkā,
-ˈkē
plural archai
-kī
: something that was in the beginning : a first principle:
a
in early Greek philosophy : a substance or primal element
b
in Aristotle : an actuating principle (as a cause)

arche-

2 of 2

prefix

: primitive : original
archecentric
archespore

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Greek archē, literally, beginning

Prefix

Latin, from Greek, from archein to begin

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near arche

Cite this Entry

“Arche.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/arche. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!