Beams Meaning and Definition
Beams
Pronunciation
/biːmz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A strip of wood, metal, or other material, typically used in construction to provide structural support or to connect other components.
Examples
- The contractor laid the beams across the frame of the building.
- The engineer designed the beams to withstand the weight of the heavy machinery.
Synonyms
- Rafter
- Beamlet
Antonyms
- Ridge
- Joint
Additional Information
Beams are commonly used in construction to provide structural support and resistance to various loads such as weight, wind, and seismic forces. They come in different types, including horizontal beams, vertical beams, and diagonal beams. Beams are essential components of many structures, including buildings, bridges, and roads.
Etymology
The word “beam” comes from Old English “bēam”, which is related to the Proto-Germanic word “*baimiz” and the Proto-Indo-European root “*bhak-“, both of which conveyed the idea of straightness or length.
Usage Notes
Beams can be used in both technical and everyday contexts. In construction, beams are an essential component of building design and engineering. In a broader sense, the term “beam” can be used poetically to refer to a strong, stable, or radiant feeling, as in “a beam of sunlight” or “a beam of hope”.
Cultural References
Beams have appeared in various cultural references, such as literary works like William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” (Act 3, Scene 1) and popular songs like “Beam Me Up” by Scott Kveton.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Expressions like “beaming with pride” or “a beam of light” are common idioms that incorporate the word “beam”.
Related Words or Phrases
Words related to beams include “bar”, “column”, “pillar”, and “cantilever”, all of which refer to structural elements used in construction.
Collocations
Common collocations with the word “beam” include “crossbeam”, “main beam”, “side beam”, and “beamline”.
Frequency of Use
At 0.015 frequency, “beam” is a relatively common word used in various contexts.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of the word “beam” include “beem”, “beemz”, and “beems”.