Beam

Noun

Definition: A long, sturdy piece of squared timber or metal used to support the roof or floor of a building.

Definition: A ray or shaft of light.

Synonyms: Support, Girder, Rafter, Joist

Antonyms: Gap, Void

Examples:
  • The old barn had wooden beams supporting the roof.
  • The sun's beams streamed through the window.
Mnemonics:
  • Imagine a beam of light shining through a wooden beam in a building.

Etymology:

Origin:

Old English 'bēam', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'boom' and German 'Baum'.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used to describe structural supports in buildings for centuries.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Off the beam"

Explanation:

To be mistaken or off track.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing the noun form with the verb form.

Explanation:

'Beam' can be both a noun and a verb with different meanings.

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