ogival
Like Gothic arches
Ogival describes something having the shape of an ogive—a pointed arch formed by two curves meeting at the top, characteristic of Gothic architecture.
The term applies to architectural features like windows and doorways, but also extends to other pointed, curved forms: the ogival nose cone of a rocket, an ogival bullet designed for better aerodynamics.
In technical contexts, ogival may describe any structure or object with this distinctive pointed-arch profile.
Curved spanning structure
- ribbedWith raised parallel lines
- groinedWith intersecting vault edges
- domeRounded vault forming roof
- cupolaSmall rooftop dome
keystone · springer · span · thrust · abutment · centering · masonry · stonework
Fired metal projectile
- warheadMunition's explosive section
- nose coneTapered forward section
- projectileLaunched airborne object
- trajectoryPath of moving object
aerodynamic · streamlined · caliber · shell · cartridge · missile · penetration · ballistics
Arch with angled apex
- flying buttressExternal arch transferring thrust
- traceryDecorative branching stonework
- rose windowCircular tracery-filled window
- cathedralBishop's principal church
apse · nave · chancel · clerestory · pinnacle · spire · finial · quatrefoil
arch
Curved spanning structure
cupola · keystone · springer · span · thrust · abutment · centering · masonry · stonework · load-bearing
bullet
Fired metal projectile
- warheadMunition's explosive section
- nose coneTapered forward section
- projectileLaunched airborne object
trajectory · aerodynamic · streamlined · caliber · shell · cartridge · missile · penetration · ballistics · muzzle velocity
pointed arch
Arch with angled apex
- flying buttressExternal arch transferring thrust
- traceryDecorative branching stonework
- rose windowCircular tracery-filled window
cathedral · apse · nave · chancel · clerestory · pinnacle · spire · finial · quatrefoil · trefoil
ogivalrounded
Having no sharp angles
semicircular · round · flat · hemispherical · blunt