ogive

[ oh-jahyv, oh-jahyv ]

noun

1. Architecture.
   1. a diagonal vaulting rib.
   2. a pointed arch.
2. Statistics. the distribution curve of a frequency distribution.
3. Rocketry. the curved nose of a missile or rocket.

ogive

/ əʊˈdʒaɪv; ˈəʊdʒaɪv /

noun

1. a diagonal rib or groin of a Gothic vault
2. See lancet arch
   another name for lancet arch
3. statistics a graph the ordinates of which represent cumulative frequencies of the values indicated by the corresponding abscissas
4. the conical head of a missile or rocket that protects the payload during its passage through the atmosphere

Derived Forms

• oˈgival, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ogive¹

1605–15; < French, Middle French ogive, augive < Spanish aljibe < Spanish Arabic al-jibb the well

Word History and Origins

Origin of ogive¹

C17: from Old French, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

This arch, a natural ogive, fashioned by the waves, was glittering between its two dark and profound supports.

From Project Gutenberg

The first floor of the donjon, lighted by a long ogive window, formed a large circular hall.

From Project Gutenberg

The ogive is, perhaps, very ancient; and authors dispute as to the anteriority of the Romanesque to the Gothic.

From Project Gutenberg

The circular arch reigns throughout, but many in ogive also occur in different parts.

From Project Gutenberg

The curves of the commonplace arcade became those of the graceful ogive, or of the proud, far-extending arch.

From Project Gutenberg