I-beam

[ ahy-beem ]

noun

1. a rolled or extruded metal beam having a cross section resembling an I. Compare H-beam.

I-beam

noun

1. a rolled steel joist or a girder with a cross section in the form of a capital letter I Compare H-beam

Word History and Origins

Origin of I-beam¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

The center I-beam that ran the length of the house was twisted, and the two-by-four plate on top of it was only 7/8-inch thick due to being compressed.

From Seattle Times

The three then walked with dozens of others on a trail through the desert, crossed the Colorado River, and arrived at the I-beam barricades around 3 a.m.

From Los Angeles Times

Swain, 59, was a commercial electrician in Tampa when a collision with an I-beam on a construction site 10 years ago left him with severe neck and back injuries.

From Washington Post

A side beam near the southbound lane showed a bent I-beam edge, which Cox said might have been hit by flying cargo Wednesday.

From Seattle Times

Ayala had been welding an I-beam when it somehow became dislodged and fell on top of him, officials said.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• joist
• truss