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noun

ˈaps 

1

: apsis sense 1

2

: a projecting part of a building (such as a church) that is usually semicircular in plan and vaulted

Examples of apse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An interior that looks like a forest The cross-shaped interior, with the altar at the apse, is an homage to light and nature. —Joseph Wilson, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2026

The cross-shaped interior, with the altar at the apse, is an homage to light and nature. —ABC News, 10 June 2026

The site is equal parts art installation and scientific feat, consisting of an empty white space that fills with rainbows each day as the sun shines through 12 large prisms in the building's apses. —Cailey Rizzo, Travel + Leisure, 21 Jan. 2026

The reception area and a wine bar occupy the original nave and apse of the church, while a superb open-walled breakfast room and library fill an upstairs mezzanine. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

shortening of apsis, perhaps by analogy with base entry 1 : basis

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

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noun

ˈaps 

: a part of a building (as a church) that sticks out from one end of the building, is usually semicircular, has an arched roof, and is often richly decorated especially in Gothic churches