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noun \ˈaps\

Definition of APSE

1

: apsis 1

2

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

Origin of APSE

Medieval Latin & Latin; Medieval Latin apsis, from Latin

First Known Use: 1822

Rhymes with APSE

chaps, craps, lapse, schnapps, taps, traps

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noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Apse, basilica of S. Vitale, Ravenna, 526–547—Alinari/Art Resource, New York

Semicircular or polygonal termination to the choir, chancel (see cathedral), or aisle of a public building, first used in pre-Christian Roman architecture. Originally a large niche to hold the statue of a deity in a temple, the apse also appeared in ancient baths and basilicas. The domed apse became a standard part of the Christian church plan.