archivolt

[ ahr-kuh-vohlt ]

noun

, Architecture.

1. a molded or decorated band following the extrados of an arch or forming an archlike frame for an opening.

archivolt

/ ˈɑːkɪˌvəʊlt /

noun

1. a moulding around an arch, sometimes decorated
2. the under surface of an arch

Word History and Origins

Origin of archivolt¹

1725–35; < French archivolte < Italian archivolto < Medieval Latin *archivoltum, Latinization of Old French arvol < Late Latin arcus volūtus vaulted arch; arch ¹, vault ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of archivolt¹

C18: from Italian archivolto; see arc , vault ¹

Example Sentences

Archivolt, r′ki-volt, n. the band or moulding which runs round the lower part of the archstones of an arch.

From Project Gutenberg

Archivolt (rki-volt), in architecture, the ornamental band of mouldings on the face of an arch and following its contour.

From Project Gutenberg

The archivolt which frames it, doubtless belonged to a 12th century tomb.

From Project Gutenberg

The south-east door has in its tympanum the death of the Blessed Virgin, with angels in the archivolt holding candles.

From Project Gutenberg

The meaning of the sculpture in the archivolt was not clear to me, and seemed to refer to some legend.

From Project Gutenberg