Branchial arch is a term in anatomy that describes the structures which are present in the throat of a developing embryo. These structures eventually form the components of the head and neck in a fully-formed individual. The branchial arches are also referred to as pharyngeal arches or visceral arches. They are numbered from 1 to 6 and each arch has a distinct set of characteristics and functions. Synonyms for the term branchial arch include gill arch, visceral arch, and pharyngeal arch. These terms are often used interchangeably depending on the context in which they are being used. Understanding these synonyms can help make the study of anatomy more accessible and comprehensible.