# broad in the beam

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/broad-in-the-beam
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Wide across the hips, with large buttocks.

## Examples

- That old chair is too narrow for someone broad in the beam.
- The tailor warned him that the trousers might feel tight because he is a bit broad in the beam.
- Although he carried himself with an air of refined elegance, he was undeniably broad in the beam, which made finding well-fitting suits a lifelong struggle.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.