Meaning & Definition of word "Vault"

Vault

/vɔːlt/

noun:

  • 1. A secure room or compartment for storing valuables or important documents.
    • Example: The museum has a climate-controlled vault to protect its rare artifacts.
  • 2. An arched structure forming a ceiling or roof.
    • Example: The cathedral featured a beautiful, high stone vault adorned with frescoes.
  • 3. A jump over a horizontal bar or object in pole vaulting or gymnastics.
    • Example: Her impressive vault over the bar earned her a gold medal at the championships.

verb:

  • 1. To leap or jump over something, often with the aid of a pole in sports like pole vaulting.
    • Example: The athlete vaulted over the high jump bar with ease.
  • 2. To store something securely in a vault.
    • Example: They decided to vault the important documents for safekeeping.

Etymology

Middle English 'vaulte', from Latin 'volta', meaning 'a turn, a rounded ceiling'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

vault of heaven:

A poetic term referring to the sky or heaven.

vault over:

To leap over something.

treasure vault:

A secure storage area for valuable items.

Related Words

bunker:

A fortified underground shelter.

depository:

A place where things are deposited for storage.

arch:

A structure that spans an opening.

Slang Meanings of vault

Meaning: To vault someone or something

Example Sentence: He vaultered his way into the exclusive party.

Meaning: To go all out or commit fully

Example Sentence: She decided to vault into her new job without hesitation.