RELIEVING ARCH Meaning and
Definition
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A relieving arch refers to an architectural feature designed to redistribute or alleviate the weight or pressure on a structure such as a wall or opening. This type of arch is commonly used in construction to provide additional support and prevent the collapse or failure of load-bearing walls or other elements.
The purpose of a relieving arch is to redirect the downward force exerted by the structure above it, thereby distributing the weight over a wider area. By creating an arch over a doorway or window, for example, the structural load is transferred to the sides of the opening where it can be better supported. This arch acts as a bridge that spans the width of the opening, transferring the weight to the adjacent walls or piers that can better handle the stress.
Relieving arches are often made of bricks or stones and are typically semicircular or segmental in shape. They are strategically placed above vulnerable areas where the structure's integrity may be compromised, such as doorways, windows, or niches.
This architectural technique has been used for centuries and can be found in various historical buildings and structures across different cultures. The presence of a relieving arch helps to mitigate the risk of structural failure and provides a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution to distribute loads and maintain the stability of a building.
Common Misspellings for RELIEVING ARCH
- eelieving arch
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- telieving arch
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- 4elieving arch
- rwlieving arch
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- relueving arch
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Etymology of RELIEVING ARCH
The etymology of the word "relieving arch" can be understood by dividing it into two parts: "relieving" and "arch".
1. "Relieving": This term comes from the verb "relieve", which is derived from the Latin word "relievare". In Latin, "re" means "again" or "back", and "levare" means "to raise" or "to lift". Thus, "relieve" originally meant "to lift back" or "to raise up". Over time, the term evolved and came to refer to the act of lessening or eliminating pain or distress.
2. "Arch": The noun "arch" has its roots in the Latin word "arcus", which means "bow" or "arch". The word's fundamental meaning is retained in both Latin and English, as it refers to a curved structure that can distribute weight or force efficiently.
