triumphal arch

American  

noun

1. a monumental archway, often erected in permanent materials as a commemorative structure, straddling the line of march of a victorious army during a triumphal procession.

2. an architectural motif resembling in its composition an ancient Roman triumphal arch, having one high central archway flanked by side elements composed of lower arches, compartments, bas-reliefs, etc., the whole usually adorned by a huge order.

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triumphal arch British  

noun

1. an arch built to commemorate a victory

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Etymology

Origin of triumphal arch

First recorded in 1540–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

triumphal arch

But it is not merely a triumphal arch.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 27, 2026

But for many residents, it feels like Trump is putting his personal stamp on the city, from his plans for a triumphal arch to a new gilded White House ballroom.

From Barron's ● May 19, 2026

Established by Congress over a century ago, the commission would have reviewed plans for the elaborate ballroom Trump is erecting at the White House, as well as another project — his proposed triumphal arch.

From Salon ● Nov. 5, 2025

Charbonneau, a partner at Harrison Design, posted a watercolour rendering of the the proposal on social media on 4 September, writing "America needs a triumphal arch!"

From BBC ● Oct. 15, 2025

There was a general shout of outrage, and then we recommended the building of Leper’s triumphal arch around Brinker’s keystone.

From "A Separate Peace" by John Knowles