Ridgepole - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A ridgepole is the horizontal beam at the top of a roof, supporting the rafters and forming the apex of a triangular roof structure. It is essential in traditional timber framing.
Definition:
The horizontal beam at the top of a roof, supporting the rafters.
Synonyms:
rooftop beam, roof beam, main beam, rafter support
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
foundation, base
Common Collocations:
wooden ridgepole, sturdy ridgepole, roof ridgepole, support ridgepole, install ridgepole
Derivatives:
ridged, ridging
Usage Tips:
Use "ridgepole" to refer to the central beam in a roof structure; avoid confusing it with general roof parts like rafters or eaves.
Common Phrases:
strong as a ridgepole, hold up the ridgepole, ridgepole of the tent
Etymology:
From Old English "hrycg" (ridge) + "pāl" (pole), referring to the central pole along a roof's ridge.
Examples:
- 1. The ridgepole supports the entire roof structure.
- 2. Carpenters secured the ridgepole before adding the rafters.
- 3. A strong wind damaged the tent's ridgepole overnight.
- 4. The old barn's ridgepole was made of solid oak.