Beam
/biːm/
nounBeginnerVery CommonGeneral
Meanings
Questions
Definitions
2 meanings1
A long, relatively strong, straight piece of timber, metal, or concrete used as a structural support.
/biːm/
nounneutralBeginner
General
A long, sturdy piece of wood or metal
The wooden beam creaked under the weight.
💡 Simply: A strong bar of wood or metal.
More Examples
2
A searchlight beam cut through the darkness.
How It's Used
Construction
"The builders used strong steel beams to support the roof."
Physics
"The laser beam was focused on the target."
2
To smile broadly and radiantly; to shine brightly.
/biːm/
verbpositiveBeginner
General
To smile radiantly
He beamed at the audience.
💡 Simply: To smile brightly.
More Examples
2
The sun beamed down on us.
How It's Used
Everyday Conversation
"She beamed with pride at her daughter's accomplishment."
Tip:Imagine your face BEAMING with happiness.
From Old English *beam, meaning a tree trunk or log. Its uses expanded to include structural members and then to light.
The word 'beam' has consistently referred to a strong, structural element since Old English, with the radiant smile meaning developing later.
Memory tip
Imagine a strong, long BEAM supporting a building.
Practice
Base: beam
beembeem
Usage
60%Spoken
40%Written