crossbeam

[ kraws-beem, kros- ]

noun

1. a transverse beam in a structure, as a joist.

crossbeam

/ ˈkrɒsˌbiːm /

noun

1. a beam that spans from one support to another

Word History and Origins

Origin of crossbeam¹

First recorded in 1585–95; cross- + beam

Example Sentences

The kindergarten playground, weathered from decades of brutal winters, had turned hazardous; at times, sharp screws protruded from some of the equipment, and kids routinely got splinters from the wooden crossbeams.

From Salon

Victims then were affixed to the crossbeam and raised onto the upright beam, which was generally set in a permanent place for subsequent executions.

From Washington Post

The show's title piece is a heap of rock spikes supported by metal crossbeams and piled beneath an electronic stock-market ticker display.

From Washington Post

Crews will rebuild the top crossbeam, and perhaps the top part of the column, in the next two to three months, he said.

From Seattle Times

“Where, where?” shrieks Amy, staring out at two tall posts with a crossbeam and some dangling chains.

From Literature