vault

¹vault

noun \ˈvȯlt\

Definition of VAULT

1

a : an arched structure of masonry usually forming a ceiling or roof b : something (as the sky) resembling a vault c : an arched or dome-shaped anatomical structure <the cranial vault>

2

a : a space covered by an arched structure; especially : an underground passage or room b : an underground storage compartment c : a room or compartment for the safekeeping of valuables

3

a : a burial chamber b : a prefabricated container usually of metal or concrete into which a casket is placed at burial

— vaulty \ˈvȯl-tē\ adjective

Illustration of VAULT

Origin of VAULT

Middle English vaute, voute, from Anglo-French voute, from Vulgar Latin *volvita turn, vault, from feminine of *volvitus, alteration of Latin volutus, past participle of volvere to roll — more at voluble

First Known Use: 14th century

Other Architecture Terms

buttress, casita, cornice, fanlight, garret, lintel, parapet, pilaster, plinth

Rhymes with VAULT

Balt, fault, gault, halt, malt, Olt, salt, smalt, volt