Okay kiddo, so you know how we have buildings with roofs that are shaped like a triangle, right? Well, sometimes people build buildings with roofs that are shaped like a curve instead.
When they do this, they need something called a counter-arch. This is like a helper for the curve-shaped roof, to make sure it doesn't get all squished or bent out of shape.
The counter-arch is basically a second curve that's put underneath the roof, kind of like a set of extra-strong muscles. It helps the roof stay strong and stable, so that it can protect the people and things inside the building even if there's a lot of weight or pressure on top of it.
So the counter-arch is like a secret weapon for buildings with curved roofs, making them extra cool and extra safe!