rhizoverbBeta
DictionarygroinIntersecting vault edge
noun

groin

The curved edge where two vaults intersect.

The two vaults meet along a curved groin.

Etymology
gryndeOld Englishabyss; perhaps a hollow

The architectural sense applies the name of a bodily junction to the line where two vault surfaces meet. It names the curved intersection rather than either vault on its own.

More examples

  • Several groins crossed the ceiling.
  • The architect traced the groin.
  • Stone ribs followed the groin.

Forms

groin · groins

Similar words

rib
A structural projection that may follow a vault intersection.
edge
The general boundary term.