girder

[ gur-der ]

noun

1. a large beam, as of steel, reinforced concrete, or timber, for supporting masonry, joists, purlins, etc.
2. a principal beam of wood, steel, etc., supporting the ends of joists.

girder

/ ˈɡɜːdə /

noun

1. a large beam, esp one made of steel, used in the construction of bridges, buildings, etc
2. botany the structure composed of tissue providing mechanical support for a stem or leaf

Other Words From

• girder·less adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of girder¹

First recorded in 1605–15; gird ¹ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Last week, the final girder was installed on the crossing, completing the foundation and marking a construction milestone.

From Los Angeles Times

On another occasion he says in front of her: "I have a girder in my underpants."

From BBC

Drilling was also paused on Wednesday after the boring machine hit a metal girder, causing some damage to its blades and a six-hour delay as rescuers worked to clear the obstacle.

From Seattle Times

Highway 518 heading east, from Burien to the airport, will also close all weekend so crews can continue work on a girder that was damaged by a truck in 2020.

From Seattle Times

Whereas the old bridges dating to 1966, were three-span and made of concrete, the new infrastructure will be single steel girder bridges, with better stormwater management and updated traffic signage, according to the Maryland Department of Transportation.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• joist
• truss