Beam
/biːm/
Definitions
2 meaningsA long, relatively strong, straight piece of timber, metal, or concrete used as a structural support.
/biːm/
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
A searchlight beam cut through the darkness.
How It's Used
"The builders used strong steel beams to support the roof."
"The laser beam was focused on the target."
To smile broadly and radiantly; to shine brightly.
/biːm/
To smile radiantly
He beamed at the audience.
💡 Simply: To smile brightly.
More Examples
The sun beamed down on us.
How It's Used
"She beamed with pride at her daughter's accomplishment."
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.
Word Origin
"tree trunk"