discharging arch

noun

1. an arch for taking some of the weight from a structural member beneath it.

Word History and Origins

Origin of discharging arch¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Discharging Arch Discharging Arch, an arch formed in the substance of a wall to relieve the part which is below it from the superincumbent weight.

From Project Gutenberg

The Romans frequently employed the discharging arch, and inside the portico of the Pantheon the architraves have such arches over them.

From Project Gutenberg

Gauged arches, being for the most part but a half-brick in thickness on the soffit and not being tied by a bond to anything behind them—for behind them is the lintel with rough discharging arch over, supporting the remaining width of the wall—require to be executed with great care and nicety.

From Project Gutenberg

As the masons begin better to understand their art, the span of the arch increases, though a large arch for some time does duty merely as a discharging arch, and has smaller arches beneath and within it.

From Project Gutenberg