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Rafter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rafter

[ˈrɑːftər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

construction

A rafter is one of a series of sloping beams that extend from the ridge or hip to the wall plate, supporting the roof.

Synonyms

beam, joist, truss.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rafter

A rafter is used in the context of roof construction, defining one of the internal beams extending from the eaves to the peak of the roof.

  • The carpenter measured each rafter before installing it.
  • The rafters need to be strong to support the roof.
beam

A beam is a large, strong piece of wood, metal, or concrete used to support floors or ceilings in construction. It is used in various parts of the building, not just the roof.

  • The wooden beam supports the second floor of the building.
  • Steel beams are essential for the structure's stability.
joist

A joist is specifically a horizontal structural element that supports a floor or ceiling. They are usually smaller than beams and spaced closer together.

  • The joists were installed to hold up the new floor.
  • Each joist must be evenly placed for the ceiling to be stable.
truss

A truss is a framework of beams, usually arranged in triangular units, providing support for the roof or bridge. It offers extra strength and stability.

  • The engineer designed a truss to support the wide span of the bridge.
  • Roof trusses are pre-fabricated and then installed on site.

Examples of usage

  • The carpenters were busy installing the rafters on the new house.
  • The rafter cracked under the weight of the heavy snow.
Context #2 | Noun

bird anatomy

A rafter is a group of turkeys.

Synonyms

flock, group.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rafter

This word is typically used to describe a group of turkeys.

  • We saw a rafter of turkeys crossing the meadow.
group

This word can be used in a general sense for any collection of people, animals, or things.

  • A group of friends decided to go hiking.
  • We saw a group of dolphins near the shore.
flock

This word is most commonly used when talking about a group of birds or sheep.

  • A flock of geese flew overhead.
  • The shepherd guided his flock across the field.

Examples of usage

  • A rafter of turkeys crossed the road in front of our car.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Rafters are usually made of timber and play a crucial role in framing roofs, distributing weight and providing support.
  • In traditional designs, rafters create triangles, which are strong shapes that help keep structures stable.
  • Modern materials like steel and engineered wood are sometimes used instead of traditional timber rafters for added strength.

Cultural Significance

  • In some regions, the craftsmanship of rafter construction reflects local traditions, showcasing artistic design and sustainable building practices.
  • Certain rural communities have festivals or events celebrating traditional methods of building roofs and using rafters.

Engineering

  • Engineers often calculate the load bearing capacity of rafters to ensure that rooftops can withstand elements like snow or heavy rain.
  • Modern technology has led to innovations in rafter design, including the use of trusses which distribute weight more efficiently.

Art and Literature

  • Rafters are often depicted in literature and art as symbols of shelter and home, representing safety and comfort.
  • In folk tales, rafters can be connected to stories about construction, craftsmanship, and the building of a community.

Origin of 'rafter'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French word 'rafte,' which means a beam or rafter, and has roots in the Latin word 'raptus,' meaning to seize or take.
  • It was first used in English around the 14th century, referring to wooden beams used in construction.

The word 'rafter' originated from Middle English 'raftere', which in turn came from Old English 'rafter'. The use of 'rafter' to refer to a sloping beam in construction dates back to the 14th century.

See also: raft.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,157, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.