straining arch

noun

variants or strainer arch

: a construction (such as a flying buttress) that suggests an arch and is designed to resist end thrust

Word History

Etymology

straining arch from straining (present participle of strain entry 2) + arch; strainer arch from strainer + arch

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!