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

They walked to an impromptu stadium the city had set up in the middle of the square and climbed onto the stage, which resembled a triumphal arch.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

It also comes amid other grandiose schemes such as demolishing the White House East Wing in order to install a $400-million ballroom, and announcing the construction of a large triumphal arch.

From Barron's • Dec. 18, 2025

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

Russia, an ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad’s government, has begun restoring Palmyra’s triumphal arch, the largest-scale project underway to date at the site.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 1, 2023

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