corbel vault: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical
Quick answer
What does “corbel vault” mean?
An architectural vault formed by the projection of stones or bricks from each side of a space, meeting at the top, without using arches.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An architectural vault formed by the projection of stones or bricks from each side of a space, meeting at the top, without using arches.
In archaeology, the term refers to the chamber formed by this technique in ancient structures such as tombs (e.g., Mycenaean tholos tombs) or in corbelled domes and towers. The construction relies on horizontal layers, each slightly overhanging the one below.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or definitional differences. Spelling conventions for related terms follow regional norms (e.g., 'corbelling' vs. 'corbeling').
Connotations
Neutral, technical term in both dialects.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general discourse, but standard within its specialised fields in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “corbel vault” in a Sentence
The [architects/engineers] constructed a corbel vault over the [chamber/passage].The [structure/chamber] is roofed by a corbel vault.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “corbel vault” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The ancient builders corbelled the roof to create a stable, beehive-shaped chamber.
- They are corbelling the stones outwards to form the vault.
American English
- The masons corbeled the masonry to form the vault's support.
- This technique corbels each course over the one below.
adverb
British English
- The stones were stacked corbellingly to form the dome.
adjective
British English
- The corbelled structure is a marvel of pre-architectural engineering.
- They studied the corbelling technique in detail.
American English
- The corbeled ceiling was remarkably intact.
- Corbeling construction was common in the ancient Southwest.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Common in academic texts on architectural history, archaeology (e.g., Bronze Age Aegean, Neolithic Europe, Mayan architecture).
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard term in architectural and archaeological specifications, descriptions, and reports.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “corbel vault”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “corbel vault”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “corbel vault”
- Pronouncing 'corbel' to rhyme with 'orbital' (correct: COR-buhl).
- Confusing it with a 'barrel vault', which is a continuous arched shape.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A true arch uses wedge-shaped stones (voussoirs) and a central keystone, transferring weight laterally along the curve. A corbel vault uses flat, horizontal layers, each projecting slightly beyond the one below, transferring weight downward through the wall.
Famous examples include the Treasury of Atreus (Mycenae, Greece), the Nuraghe of Sardinia (Italy), Neolithic tombs like Newgrange (Ireland), and in Maya architecture at sites like Palenque (Mexico).
Yes, it is a standard technical term in architectural history and conservation. In modern construction, the term is less common but understood as a specific historical building technique.
Generally, no. Corbel vaults are less efficient at spanning wide distances compared to true arches or vaults. They create a large amount of outward thrust and are typically used for smaller chambers, tombs, or as a roofing technique for narrow passages.
An architectural vault formed by the projection of stones or bricks from each side of a space, meeting at the top, without using arches.
Corbel vault is usually technical in register.
Corbel vault: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːb(ə)l vɔːlt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːrb(ə)l vɑːlt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a vault where the stones CORner and proBELly outwards until they meet, like leaning books together to form a tunnel.
Conceptual Metaphor
ARCHITECTURE IS GEOLOGY (layered, sedimentary); SUPPORT IS PROJECTION.
Practice
Quiz
What is the defining characteristic of a corbel vault?