VOUSSOIRS Meaning and
Definition
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Voussoirs are architectural elements that are commonly used in the construction of arches and vaults. Derived from the French word "vous," meaning "you" or "yourself," voussoirs are individual wedge-shaped stones or masonry units that are carefully arranged to form the curved shape of an arch or a vault.
Each voussoir is shaped like a wedge, with one of its wide ends forming the curved surface of the arch, while the other narrow end connects to the neighboring voussoir. Together, these voussoirs create a stable, self-supporting structure capable of bearing the load and distributing it down to the supporting piers or columns on either side.
The individual voussoirs are carefully cut and shaped to fit snugly against each other, creating a seamless curve. This requires precise cutting and measuring of each unit, often done by skilled stonemasons. The voussoirs gradually increase in size towards the center of the arch, where the keystone, the central and often largest voussoir, is positioned.
The use of voussoirs allows for the distribution of weight and forces more effectively, as the curved shape helps to transfer the load downwards and outwards to the supporting elements. This architectural technique has been used for centuries in various types of structures, ranging from ancient Roman aqueducts to medieval cathedrals.
In summary, voussoirs are wedge-shaped masonry units that are arranged together to form the curved shape of an arch or vault. They provide structural stability, distribute weight, and allow for the creation of aesthetically pleasing architectural features.
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In arch., those stone's that immediately form the arch of a bridge, vault, &c., and which are cut more or less in the form of a wedge.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for VOUSSOIRS
- coussoirs
- boussoirs
- goussoirs
- foussoirs
- viussoirs
- vkussoirs
- vlussoirs
- vpussoirs
- v0ussoirs
- v9ussoirs
- voyssoirs
- vohssoirs
- vojssoirs
- voissoirs
- vo8ssoirs
- vo7ssoirs
- vouasoirs
- vouzsoirs
- vouxsoirs
- voudsoirs
Etymology of VOUSSOIRS
The word "voussoirs" is derived from the Old French term "voussure", which originated from the Latin word "volutus", meaning "rolled". The Latin term was used to describe the part of an arch or a vault which is formed by the extrados or exterior curve. Over time, the Old French term evolved into "voussure", which referred to the stones or bricks used to construct the arch or vault. Finally, the term was pluralized to "voussoirs" in English to describe the individual wedge-shaped elements that compose an arch or a vault.
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