Arc (ärk), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Arcked
(ärkt); p. pr. & vb. n. Arcking.]
(Elec.) To form a voltaic arc, as an electrical current in a broken or disconnected circuit.
Arc (&?;), n. [F. arc, L.
arcus bow, arc. See Arch, n.]
1. (Geom.) A portion of
a curved line; as, the arc of a circle or of
an ellipse.
2. A curvature in the shape of
a circular arc or an arch; as, the
colored arc (the rainbow); the arc of Hadley's quadrant.
3. An arch. [Obs.]
Statues and trophies, and triumphal arcs.
Milton.
4. The apparent arc described, above or below the
horizon, by the sun or other celestial body. The diurnal arc is described during the daytime, the nocturnal arc during the night.
Electric arc, Voltaic arc. See under Voltaic.
Hear it pronounced