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

US President Donald Trump's administration on Friday revealed renderings for a colossal triumphal arch proposed for construction in Washington near some of the nation's most revered monuments.

From Barron's • Apr. 11, 2026

He has also announced plans to build a triumphal arch as part of plans to mark the nation's 250th anniversary.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

Like the Arc de Triomphe, Trump’s proposed monument resembles the Arch of Titus, the oldest surviving triumphal arch in Rome, which is located near the Roman Forum.

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