archivolt

American  

[ahr-kuh-vohlt] / ˈɑr kəˌvoʊlt /

noun

Architecture.

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

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archivolt British  

/ ˈɑːkɪˌvəʊlt /

noun

1. a moulding around an arch, sometimes decorated

2. the under surface of an arch

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Etymology

Origin of archivolt

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

Example Sentences

The archivolt is formed by a band adorned with saw-teeth in high relief carved with a row of triangular sticks.

From Romanesque Art in Southern Manche: Album by Lebert, Marie

The great portal on the west is richly decorated in the archivolt.

From The Cathedrals and Churches of the Rhine by Mansfield, M. F. (Milburg Francisco)

The moldings of the arch and archivolt are the result of meticulous work, as well as the sculptures of the capital baskets, with oak leaves, acanthus leaves and scrolls.

From Romanesque Art in Southern Manche: Album by Lebert, Marie

The archivolt topping the semi-circular arch rests on a granite stone carved with a human head.

From Romanesque Art in Southern Manche: Album by Lebert, Marie

The outer grain and archivolt disappear into the masonry of the nave to the left, whereas they rest on a slightly prominent and chamfered large stone on the right.

From Romanesque Art in Southern Manche: Album by Lebert, Marie