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firms

n.
US //ˈfɝmz// UK //fˈɜːmz// firms
  1. 1 roof rafters (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Archaic Technical Science

    the main wooden beams that support a roof.

    the principal rafters of a roof structure, specifically a pair of rafters acting as a structural unit.

    Example

    The old barn still has its original oak firms supporting the heavy roof.

    Example

    The restoration architect noted that the primary firms had suffered significant rot, necessitating a complete replacement of the medieval roof timbering.
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Last updated June 19, 2026