Vault

A vault has several related meanings. In architecture, a vault is a curved ceiling or roof formed by arches or ribbing. In security, a vault is a reinforced room used to protect valuables. In sports, vault refers to the apparatus used in gymnastics and to the act of vaulting over an obstacle.

Architectural vaults include the barrel vault, a continuous semicylindrical arch; the groin vault, created by the intersection of two barrel vaults; and the ribbed vault, where ribs support a thinner masonry surface. Variants such as fan vaults and horseshoe arches appear in different eras. Vaults enable strong, spacious interiors and were central to Roman, Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic buildings.

Security vaults in banks and museums are designed to protect cash, jewelry, art, and documents. They employ thick reinforced walls, specialized doors, and multiple locking systems, often with time locks, alarms, redundant power, and strict access controls. Vaults may be located underground or within protected rooms and require authorized personnel and time-limited access.

In computing and daily life, a digital or password vault stores sensitive data or credentials, typically using encryption and access controls. In gymnastics, the vault apparatus is a springboarded table used to propel the jumper forward and over the apparatus, finishing on a mat.