WordValeload-bearing
supporting the weight of the structure above
In more detail
1. (adjective) designed or built to support the weight of a structure
2. (adjective) carrying a heavy load or burden
Examples
- 1. We cannot remove that load-bearing wall because it supports the entire upper floor.
- 2. The load-bearing members of the bridge need regular maintenance to stay safe.
How to use load-bearing
Load-bearing is primarily used in architectural and construction contexts to describe walls, columns, and other elements that support a building's weight. It can also be used figuratively to describe something or someone shouldering significant responsibility or burden, though this usage is less common and more literary. The term is technical but widely understood in both professional and general contexts.
Common phrases
- load-bearing wall
- load-bearing capacity
- load-bearing structure
- load-bearing pillar
- load-bearing beam
Synonyms
structural · weight-supporting · load-carrying · supporting · foundational
Opposites
non-structural · decorative
Word family
load-bearer · load-bearing (adjective form only)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse load-bearing walls with partition walls, not recognizing that removing a load-bearing wall requires structural support whereas non-load-bearing walls can often be removed freely.
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