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.