girder

gird·er

noun \ˈgər-dər\

: a strong beam used to build buildings, bridges, etc.

Full Definition of GIRDER

:  a horizontal main structural member (as in a building or bridge) that supports vertical loads and that consists of a single piece or of more than one piece bound together

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Origin of GIRDER

¹gird

First Known Use: 1611

Rhymes with GIRDER

birder, herder, murder

girder

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

In building construction, a large main supporting beam, commonly of steel or reinforced concrete, that carries a heavy transverse (crosswise) load. In a floor system, beams and joists transfer their loads to the girders, which in turn frame into the columns.