Swell-Bow
/ˈswɛl.boʊ/noun
An architectural bow window or curved, projecting part of a building.
Did you know?A swell-bow belongs to the same broad architectural family as the bow window, whose curved projection was used to enlarge interior space while creating a dramatic exterior silhouette.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
Proto-Germanic
*swellan
“To swell, rise, or become enlarged”
Old English
Old English
swellan
“To grow or become swollen”
Old English
Old English
būgan
“To bend, curve, or turn aside”
Middle English
Middle English
bowe
“A curved shape or arch; also a bent weapon”
19th Century
English
swell-bow
“An architectural bow window or curved projection”
Modern English
English
swell-bow
“An uncommon historical term for a bow window”