Definition of joist
: any of the small timbers or metal beams ranged parallel from wall to wall in a structure to support a floor or ceiling
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Recent Examples of joist from the Web
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Called a fire cut, this prevents burning and collapsing floor joists from pulling down outer brick walls.
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Structural work, including a new roof and floor joists, is included in the mix.
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Structural work, including a new roof and floor joists, is included in the mix.
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Workers have recently removed the joists separating its basement level from the first floor and the second floor from the first.
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Probe joist ends and sill plates with a screwdriver or an ice pick.
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The fire was eating through the ceiling, melting away the staples and joists that held the electrical system in place.
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Two years ago, a devastating fire took the beloved store down to its floor joists.
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Follow your building codes for proper spacing between joists.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'joist.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Illustration of joist
Origin and Etymology of joist
Middle English giste, joiste, from Anglo-French giste, from Vulgar Latin *jacitum, from Latin jacēre to lie — more at adjacent
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First Known Use: 15th century
in the meaning defined above
See Words from the same yearJOIST Defined for English Language Learners
Definition of joist for English Language Learners
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: a strong, heavy board that supports a floor or ceiling
JOIST Defined for Kids
noun
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ˈjȯist
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Definition of joist for Students
: any of the small timbers or metal beams laid crosswise in a building to support a floor or ceiling
Learn More about joist
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See words that rhyme with joist Spanish Central: Translation of joist Nglish: Translation of joist for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about joist
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