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Glite Dictionary
corbel arch

corbel arch

9.9
An arch made by stacking layers of stone or brick that stick inward until they meet at the top
  • noun
  • /ˈkɔrbəl ɑrtʃ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : arco de ménsulas
  • Early temples in India often featured the corbel arch technique in their design.

Examples

  • The ancient structure was supported by a corbel arch above the entrance.

  • Builders employed a corbel arch to span the narrow passageway.

  • The ancient temple featured a stunning corbel arch.

  • Many corbel arches can be seen in historic buildings.

  • The ancient structure was supported by a corbel arch that elegantly framed the entrance.

  • Many historic buildings showcase a corbel arch as a prominent architectural feature.

  • Early temples in India often incorporated the corbel arch to enhance their grandeur.

Synonyms

arch
vscorbel arch
41 3.5

A curved structure that spans an opening and supports weight

is built by stacked projecting stones that step inward to meet at the top
archway
vscorbel arch
16 4.0

A curved opening people walk through, often made of stone or brick

is formed from overlapping layers that advance inward rather than a smooth curve

Surface Forms

corbel arch singular
corbel arches plural

Morphology

corbel + arch

The compound is directly compositional: an arch made from corbels (projecting stones). If a B1 learner knows 'corbel' as a projecting stone/support and 'arch' as an arched structure, the overall meaning — an arch constructed from corbels — is immediately derivable, even if the term is somewhat technical.

Etymology

Corbel arch comes from a simple building trick: builders stacked stone ledges called corbels, with each layer sticking out a little so the sides step inward and meet at the top to form an arch. That's why a corbel arch means an arch made by overlapping stones to cover an opening.