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[ aps ]

noun

1. Architecture. a semicircular or polygonal termination or recess in a building, usually vaulted and used especially at the end of a choir in a church.
2. Astronomy. an apsis.

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/ æps; ˈæpsɪdəl; æpˈsaɪdəl /

noun

1. Also calledapsis a domed or vaulted semicircular or polygonal recess, esp at the east end of a church
2. astronomy another name for apsis

Derived Forms

• apsidal, adjective

Other Words From

• ap·si·dal [ap, -si-dl], adjective
• apsi·dal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of apse¹

First recorded in 1815–25; variant of apsis

Word History and Origins

Origin of apse¹

C19: from Latin apsis, from Greek: a fitting together, arch, from haptein to fasten

Example Sentences

It was only possible to complete the apse, choir and transepts.

From BBC

Ross designed 12 solar prisms for the apses.

From Los Angeles Times

He painted the triptych — the Lost Mural — in the apse of the building, as well as other murals in the synagogue’s interior.

From Seattle Times

A second work with the same title, a painting in seven parts, is installed as an apse in an adjacent room.

From New York Times

Their bark flakes and shreds, and trunks soar to an apse raised over centuries.

From Seattle Times