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American  

[aps] / æps /

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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apse British  

/ æps, ˈæpsɪdəl, æpˈsaɪdəl /

noun

1. Also called: apsis.  a domed or vaulted semicircular or polygonal recess, esp at the east end of a church

2. astronomy another name for apsis

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Other Word Forms

• apsidal adjective
• apsidally adverb

Etymology

Origin of apse

First recorded in 1815–25; variant of apsis

Example Sentences

There is still scaffolding around much of the eastern end, and in coming years the outside walls of the apse and sacristy will need treatment.

From BBC

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