bågarna

Bågarna is the plural form of båge in Swedish and can refer to several different things that share a curved or arched shape. The word båge has multiple senses, including an architectural arch, a curved segment of a circle (arc), and a flexible rod used as a weapon or as a musical bow. The term is used in various domains, and the exact meaning depends on context.

Etymology and usage. The Swedish noun båge originates from older Germanic roots meaning bend or curve, with cognates in other Nordic languages and in English as bow or arc. In everyday language, bågar describe curved structural elements, decorative arcs, or the tools shaped as bows.

Architecture and engineering. In architecture, en båge is a curved supports spanning an opening and transferring load to supports on either side. Common forms include rundbåge (semicircular arch), spetsbåge (pointed arch), and segmentbåge (segmental arch). Bågar are fundamental in bridges, doorways, vaults and ceilings, contributing to strength and distribution of forces.

Geometry and mathematics. In geometry, en båge refers to an arc of a circle—the part of the circumference between two endpoints. Arcs are described by their radius and central angle, and key measures include båglängd (arc length) and the corresponding angle measures.

Music and archery. In musical contexts, båge denotes a bow used to play string instruments, such as a violin or cello. In archery, båge means a bow used to shoot arrows. The plural form, bågarna, can refer to multiple bows, whether in an ensemble, a collection, or a workshop setting.

See also: båge.