A skilled craftsperson who specializes in designing and constructing arch structures in buildings and architecture.
From Old English 'arc' (bow-shaped curve) + 'work' + 'master' (one who is expert in a craft); the compound emerged in medieval English to describe master builders who understood the complex geometry of arches.
Medieval arch masters were basically the structural engineers of their time—they developed practical knowledge about load distribution without calculus, using geometry and experience to build cathedrals that have stood for 800+ years.
'Master' historically restricted leadership roles to men; gendered terminology in guild and craft hierarchies excluded women from recognition of expertise.
Use 'master craftsperson', 'lead artisan', or 'chief practitioner' to acknowledge expertise across genders.
["master craftsperson","lead artisan","chief practitioner"]
Women held significant craft and guild expertise historically but were systematically excluded from 'master' titles and formal recognition; reclaiming language matters.
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