apse: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical, Academic
Quick answer
What does “apse” mean?
A semicircular or polygonal architectural recess, usually vaulted and projecting from the end wall of a building, especially a church.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A semicircular or polygonal architectural recess, usually vaulted and projecting from the end wall of a building, especially a church.
In astronomy, the apsis (either of two points in an orbit: the apoapsis and periapsis); in architecture, any projecting or recessed part of a structure with a curved termination.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are identical.
Connotations
Architectural/historical/ecclesiastical context in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency and specialised in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “apse” in a Sentence
The apse of [NP: building]An apse with [NP: feature][NP: building] has/had an apseVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “apse” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not applicable
American English
- Not applicable
adverb
British English
- Not applicable
American English
- Not applicable
adjective
British English
- The apsidal (not 'apse') design is typical of early Byzantine architecture.
American English
- They studied the apsidal (not 'apse') form of the basilica.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in art history, architectural history, archaeology, and ecclesiastical studies.
Everyday
Extremely rare except when describing historical buildings on a tour.
Technical
Precise architectural term describing a specific structural element.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “apse”
- Mispronouncing as /eɪps/ (like 'ape' + 's').
- Confusing with 'apse' as a verb (which does not exist).
- Using it in non-architectural contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specialised architectural and historical term with very low frequency in general English.
No, 'apse' is exclusively a noun. The related adjective is 'apsidal'.
In architecture, 'apse' is standard. In astronomy, the point of orbit is called an 'apsis' (plural apsides). They are etymologically related but used in completely different fields.
No. While common in many traditional Christian church designs (especially Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Anglican), many modern and non-traditional church buildings do not feature an apse.
A semicircular or polygonal architectural recess, usually vaulted and projecting from the end wall of a building, especially a church.
Apse is usually technical, academic in register.
Apse: in British English it is pronounced /æps/, and in American English it is pronounced /æps/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'APSE' as 'A Projecting Semi-circular End'.
Conceptual Metaphor
APSE IS A SACRED CONTAINER (for the altar).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'apse' most precisely and commonly used?