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Browse the Medical Dictionary:: A; B; C; D; E; F; G; H; I; J; K; L; M; N; O; P; Q; R; S; T; U; V; W; X; Y; Z; #

arch

Main Entry:: arch
Pronunciation:: \ˈärch\
Function:: noun

1: an anatomical structure that resembles an arch in form or function: as a: either of two vaulted portions of the bony structure of the foot that impart elasticity to it: (1): a longitudinal arch supported posteriorly by the basal tuberosity of the calcaneus and anteriorly by the heads of the metatarsal bones (2): a transverse arch consisting of the metatarsals and first row of tarsals and resulting from elevation of the central anterior portion of the median longitudinal arch b: arch of the aorta2: a fingerprint in which all the ridges run from side to side and make no backward turn

[arch illustration]

Learn more about "arch" and related topics at Britannica.com

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