Definition of girder

Short definition: The word girder means a strong horizontal beam made of steel or concrete that carries heavy loads and transfers weight to columns or walls, forming a key structural element in buildings, bridges, and large frameworks.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word girder? The word girder is commonly used in construction and engineering. It refers to a strong horizontal beam that supports weight in buildings, bridges, and large structures. Girders are essential for distributing loads safely and keeping structures stable. You will hear the term in architecture, civil engineering, and discussions about infrastructure. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear, human, and practical.

girder n. /ˈɡɜːrdər/

Forms: girder, girders
Related: beam n., steel n., structure n.
Syllable: gird-er

  1. (Noun) A large horizontal beam that supports floors roofs or bridges by carrying heavy loads.

    A girder is a strong main beam usually made of steel or reinforced concrete that carries heavy loads and transfers weight to columns or walls, forming a critical part of a building or bridge’s structural framework.

    The workers carefully lifted the steel girder into place so it could support the upper floors of the new building.
    Engineers inspected each girder to ensure the bridge could safely handle increased traffic loads.
    Without properly installed girders the structure would not be able to remain stable over time.

    Synonyms: beam, support beam, main beam, steel beam, load bearing beam, structural beam, horizontal support, framework beam, reinforced beam, cross beam, construction beam, support girder
    Antonyms: opening, gap, unsupported span, void, weak section, non structural element, decorative feature, surface panel, covering layer, facade element, lightweight trim, non load bearing part

An Explanation of the Word "girder" in an Image

Landscape photo of a concrete bridge girder suspended by cranes above support columns, showing an active highway construction site with workers, trucks, and surrounding hills.
A large concrete bridge girder being lifted into position by heavy cranes during highway construction, with workers coordinating below and vehicles passing on the adjacent roadway.

Conversation Using the Word Girder

The following conversation takes place between two engineers at a construction site. It shows how the word girder is used naturally when discussing structure, safety, and building progress.

The exchange reflects practical decision-making during construction work.

Alex: Has the main girder arrived yet?

Jordan: Yes, it was delivered early this morning.

Alex: Good, we can’t move forward without setting that girder first.

Jordan: Exactly, everything else depends on it being properly aligned.

Alex: Did the inspection confirm it meets the load requirements?

Jordan: Yes, the girder passed all safety checks.

Alex: Then we’re clear to proceed.

Jordan: Let’s get it installed before the weather changes.

Phrases Containing the Word Girder

The phrases below show how the word girder is commonly used when discussing construction, load-bearing structures, and engineering design.

Steel girder

A girder made of steel.

The steel girder was lifted into place to support the upper floors of the building.

Main girder

The primary supporting beam.

The main girder carries most of the structural load across the span.

Girder beam

A large load-bearing beam.

The girder beam connects multiple columns to distribute weight evenly.

Girder support

Structural reinforcement.

Additional girder support was added to strengthen the framework.

Bridge girder

A girder used in bridges.

The bridge girder was designed to withstand constant traffic and vibration.

Girder structure

The framework using girders.

The girder structure forms the backbone of the building.

Concrete girder

A girder made of reinforced concrete.

Concrete girders are often used in highway construction.

Girder installation

The process of placing girders.

Girder installation required heavy machinery and precise measurements.

Girder alignment

Correct positioning.

Proper girder alignment ensures the structure remains stable.

Girder load

The weight it carries.

The girder load was calculated carefully to avoid structural failure.

Girder span

The distance it covers.

The girder span was designed to cross the open space without extra columns.

Girder frame

A framework of girders.

The girder frame defined the shape of the entire structure.

Girder reinforcement

Strengthening the beam.

Extra girder reinforcement was added to meet safety standards.

Girder connection

The joint between beams.

The girder connection must be secure to transfer loads safely.

Girder design

Planning the beam.

Girder design depends on load requirements and material choice.

Girder placement

Positioning the beam.

Accurate girder placement is critical during construction.

Girder system

A structural support system.

The building relies on a girder system to distribute weight.

Girder inspection

Safety checking.

Regular girder inspection helps detect early signs of wear.

Girder strength

Load capacity.

Girder strength determines how much weight the structure can hold.

Girder replacement

Changing an old beam.

Girder replacement was necessary after years of stress.

Words Rhyme with girder

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wordier
sturdier
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curler
hurler
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verder
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mass-murder
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sheepherder
cowherder
swineherder
slow-burner
fast-learner
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out-border
POS: Noun  Category: Construction, Building Parts