vault

noun \ ˈvȯlt \

Definition of vault

1 a : an arched structure of masonry usually forming a ceiling or roof

b : something (such 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

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vaulty

play \ˈvȯl-tē\ adjective

Illustration of vault

Origin and Etymology of vault

Middle English vaute, voute, borrowed from Anglo-French voute, volte, going back to Vulgar Latin *volvita "turn, arched structure," noun derivative from feminine of *volvitus, re-formation of Latin volūtus, past participle of volvere "to travel (a circular course), bring round, roll" — more at voluble

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 14th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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Other Architecture Terms

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

vault

verb

Definition of vault

vaulted; vaulting; vaults

transitive verb

: to form or cover with or as if with a vault : arch

Origin and Etymology of vault

Middle English vowten, borrowed from Anglo-French vouter, verbal derivative of voute ¹vault

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 14th century

in the meaning defined above

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vault

verb

Definition of vault

vaulted; vaulting; vaults

intransitive verb

1 : to leap vigorously; especially : to execute a leap using the hands or a pole

2 : to do or achieve something as if by a leap

vaulted to sudden prominence

transitive verb

: to leap over; especially : to leap over by or as if by aid of the hands or a pole

Origin and Etymology of vault

probably borrowed from Middle French vouster "to turn about (on horseback), wheel, prance," going back to Vulgar Latin *volvitāre, frequentative of Latin volvere "to travel (a circular course), bring round, roll" — more at voluble

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1538

in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

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