: any of the small timbers or metal beams ranged parallel from wall to wall in a structure to support a floor or ceiling

Illustration of joist

Illustration of joist
  • J joist

Examples of joist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Corrosion can be prevented by using stainless steel joist hangers, fasteners, etc. Tim Carter, Hartford Courant, 23 Nov. 2024 The resulting device is mounted on the user's ceiling via just two screws, which are screwed into a ceiling joist. Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 27 Oct. 2024 Reps Through the primary suite is a walk-through closet with storage made of the reclaimed joists and, past it, a bathroom with double sinks and the same Heart Pine flooring. Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 18 Sep. 2024 The top of the fireplace mantel, Carol said, is crafted from second-floor joists that were salvaged from a Franklin County home built in 1755. Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for joist 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English giste, joiste, from Anglo-French giste, from Vulgar Latin *jacitum, from Latin jacēre to lie — more at adjacent

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of joist was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near joist

Cite this Entry

“Joist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/joist. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

joist

noun
: a small beam laid crosswise to support a floor or ceiling

More from Merriam-Webster on joist

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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