noun

girder

/ˈɡɜːrdər/ · say it: GER·der

a large main beam supporting a structure

In Architecture & Design

In more detail

1. (noun) a large strong beam made of steel or iron, used as a main support in buildings and bridges

2. (noun) any main support structure in a building or construction

Examples

1. The steel girders held up the entire weight of the bridge.
2. The building's framework includes several reinforced concrete girders.

How to use girder

Girder is a technical term used primarily in architecture, engineering, and construction to refer to a heavy horizontal or slanted beam that bears weight and maintains structural integrity. It is more specific and formal than the general term 'beam' and typically implies substantial load-bearing capacity in large structures.

Common phrases

steel girder
iron girder
main girder
bridge girder
girder system
support girder

Synonyms

beam · support · joist · truss · structural member

Word family

girdered (adjective) · girdwork (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse girder with 'girdler' (a beetle or something that encircles), or mistakenly spell it as 'girdle' (a belt-like garment or encircling structure with a different meaning).

Learn it for good

Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.

Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD