n. & v.
—n.
1 a a curved structure as an opening or a support for a bridge, roof, floor, etc. b an arch used in building as an ornament.
2 any arch-shaped curve, e.g. as on the inner side of the foot, the eyebrows, etc.
—v.
1 tr. provide with or form into an arch.
2 tr. span like an arch.
3 intr. form an arch.
Etymology: ME f. OF arche ult. f. L arcus arc
2.
adj. self-consciously or affectedly playful or teasing.
Derivatives:
archly adv. archness n.
Etymology: ARCH-, orig. in arch rogue etc.
Useful english dictionary. 2012.