triumphal arch

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.

triumphal arch

noun

1. an arch built to commemorate a victory

Word History and Origins

Origin of triumphal arch¹

First recorded in 1540–50

Example Sentences

Although the city’s history goes back to the Middle Ages, it was rebuilt under Joseph Stalin after World War II as a kind of triumphal arch and a gateway to Moscow, 700 kilometers away.

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The heroine stands beneath a triumphal arch in which imagery of the weapons of war alternate with symbols of knowledge and the arts.

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What happens to the idea of a triumphal arch when your enemy is marching through it?

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The Temple of Baalshamin and the cella and surrounding columns of the Temple of Bel were blown up, as were the ancient city's triumphal arch and seven funerary towers at its necropolis.

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It’s significant that he didn’t do a classic, triumphal arch.

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