dead load

noun

, Engineering.

1. load11

dead load

noun

1. the intrinsic invariable weight of a structure, such as a bridge. It may also include any permanent loads attached to the structure Also calleddead weight Compare live load

Word History and Origins

Origin of dead load¹

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70

Example Sentences

In a three-span bridge the theoretical advantage of continuity is about 49% for a dead load and 16% for a live load.

From Project Gutenberg

The four cables support a dead load of 7140 tons and a live load of 4017 tons.

From Project Gutenberg

All large beams support a uniform dead load consisting of their own weight.

From Project Gutenberg

The effect of dead load on a wooden beam may be two or more times that produced by an immediate load of the same weight.

From Project Gutenberg

Litvinov would have flown into a rage, but for a dead load lying on his heart.

From Project Gutenberg