arcus

views updated May 18 2018

arcus The Latin arcus, meaning ‘arch’, used to describe a cloud feature that has a rolled appearance, with fragmented edges on the leading surface of cumulonimbus and occasionally cumulus. When well developed the feature has a prominent arch-like form. See also cloud classification.

A Dictionary of Ecology MICHAEL ALLABY

arcus

views updated May 08 2018

arcus From the Latin arcus (‘arch’). A cloud feature having a rolled appearance, with fragmented edges on the leading surface of cumulonimbus and occasionally cumulus. When well developed, the feature has a prominent arch-like form. See also CLOUD CLASSIFICATION.

A Dictionary of Earth Sciences AILSA ALLABY and MICHAEL ALLABY

arcus

views updated May 14 2018

arcus.
1. Roman arch.

2. Entrance to a basilica, or a porch or gateway to a church.

3. Area in front of a basilica.

4. Apse.

A Dictionary of Architecture and Landscape Architecture JAMES STEVENS CURL

arcus

views updated Jun 27 2018

arcus (ar-kŭs) n. (in anatomy) an arch. a. senilis (corneal a.) a greyish line in the periphery of the cornea, common in the elderly. In a younger person it may indicate hyperlipidaemia.

A Dictionary of Nursing