# girder

/ˈɡɝdɝ/ (US) · /ɡˈɜːdɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/girder
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a very strong, heavy beam used to support the structure of a building or bridge. It is usually made of steel and helps hold up the weight of the whole project.

For teachers: a large, heavy beam or structural member used to support a bridge, roof, or other heavy construction. Typically fabricated from steel or reinforced concrete to provide high tensile and compressive strength.

## Examples

- The workers are lifting a heavy steel girder into place.
- The bridge collapsed because one of the main girders had rusted through over several decades of neglect.
- Modern skyscrapers rely on a complex network of steel girders and columns to distribute the immense weight of the upper floors across the foundation.

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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.