A term describing a style of architecture  that developed in Northern France in the mid-12th century and spread through western Europe, persisting until the end of the 15th century. The style was characterized by the use of pointed arches, rib vaults, flying buttresses, and stained glass windows. In art history, Gothic is also used as a blanket term for the arts of this period, including painting, sculpture, tapestry, enamel, and manuscript illumination. The Gothic period is often divided into Early Gothic (1140-1194), High Gothic (1194-1300) and Late Gothic (1300-1500). Web resources here and here.

Ambulatory vaults, Chartres Cathedral, France. Ca. 1200-1220.