expansion joint

noun

1. a joint between two parts of a structure, machine, etc., permitting expansion, as from heat, without structural damage.

expansion joint

noun

1. engineering a gap in steel or concrete to allow for thermal expansion

Word History and Origins

Origin of expansion joint¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Two lanes of the westbound Tacoma Narrows Bridge will be closed for at least “several days” after a routine inspection found crumbling concrete next to an expansion joint.

From Seattle Times

It’s undetermined whether interlocking steel teeth of the expansion joint will need replacing, Leigh said.

From Seattle Times

Down in South Seattle, the Revive I-5 program shifts gears, to expansion joint replacement instead of the previous concrete-panel repairs.

From Seattle Times

Interstate 90 near East Mercer Way: The right lane of eastbound I-90 continues to be closed where a steel expansion joint can be seen sunken below the road deck, which would cause tire jolts and further deck damage.

From Seattle Times

Drivers in Everett will encounter another inconvenient truth this week, as major expansion joint work begins for northbound Interstate 5, and lanes close for the five evenings.

From Seattle Times