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

—

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

See Words from the same year

Other Architecture Terms

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

vault

verb

Definition of vault

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

See Words from the same year

vault

verb

Definition of vault

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

See Words from the same year