Arches vs. Lintel — What's the Difference?

A usually curved structure forming the upper edge of an open space and supporting the weight above it, as in a bridge or doorway.

A lintel or lintol is a structural horizontal block that spans the space or opening between two vertical supports. It can be a decorative architectural element, or a combined ornamented structural item.

A structure, such as a freestanding monument, shaped like an inverted U.

A horizontal support of timber, stone, concrete, or steel across the top of a door or window.

A curve with the ends down and the middle up:the arch of a raised eyebrow.

A horizontal structural member, such as a beam or stone, that spans an opening, as between the uprights of a door or window or between two columns or piers.

(Anatomy)An organ or structure having a curved or bowlike appearance, especially either of two arched sections of the bony structure of the foot.

(architectural element) A horizontal structural beam spanning an opening, such as between the uprights of a door or a window, and which supports the wall above.

To provide with an arch:arch a passageway.

A horizontal member spanning an opening, and carrying the superincumbent weight by means of its strength in resisting crosswise fracture.

To cause to form an arch or similar curve.

Horizontal beam used as a finishing piece over a door or window

To bend backward:The dancers alternately arched and hunched their backs.

To span:"the rude bridge that arched the flood"(Ralph Waldo Emerson).

To form an arch or archlike curve:The high fly ball arched toward the stands.

Plural of arch