ARCBOUTANT Meaning and
Definition
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An arcboutant is a structural element found in Gothic architecture that serves as a flying buttress or a supporting arch. Derived from the French words "arc" meaning arch and "boutant" meaning supporting, an arcboutant provides external support to the walls of a building, particularly a church, by transferring the lateral thrust of the vaulted roof to a buttress or pier outside the structure.
Typically located on the exterior of a building, arcboutants are frequently characterized by an arched shape that extends from the upper part of the nave or choir wall to a buttress or pier. They are predominantly found in Gothic structures, where they played a pivotal role in allowing for greater height and more expansive interiors due to the use of ribbed vaults. By redirecting the outward thrust of the weight of the roof and vaults, the arcboutant effectively counteracts the horizontal forces and prevents the walls from collapsing.
Arcboutants are essential components in achieving the grandeur and spaciousness of Gothic architecture. They enable the construction of large stained glass windows and tall, slender walls, creating a sense of lightness and upward movement. The aesthetic and functional significance of arcboutants is highly celebrated, contributing to the distinct appearance and technical achievements of Gothic cathedrals and other ecclesiastical structures.
Common Misspellings for ARCBOUTANT
- zrcboutant
- srcboutant
- wrcboutant
- qrcboutant
- aecboutant
- adcboutant
- afcboutant
- atcboutant
- a5cboutant
- a4cboutant
- arxboutant
- arvboutant
- arfboutant
- ardboutant
- arcvoutant
- arcnoutant
- archoutant
- arcgoutant
- arcbiutant
Etymology of ARCBOUTANT
The word "arcboutant" is derived from the Old French word "arrc" meaning "arch" or "arched" and "boutant" meaning "buttressing" or "supporting". In architectural terms, an arcboutant refers to a supporting arch or a flying buttress that helps to distribute the weight of a structure, typically found in Gothic architecture. The etymology of the word reflects its function and purpose in architectural design.
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