Beam

Definition

Beam refers to a long, sturdy piece of wood, metal, or other material used to support weight or as a structural element in construction. It can also refer to a concentrated stream of light, particles, or energy, such as a "beam of light." Additionally, as a verb, it means to emit or radiate light, energy, or emotion, or to smile broadly.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /biːm/
• Respelling: beem

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /biːm/
• Respelling: beem

The pronunciation of "beam" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "beam" originates from the Old English "bēam," meaning "tree" or "pillar." It later evolved to refer to a structural element in buildings or a supporting structure. The sense of "beam" as a ray of light developed in the Middle English period, extending to refer to any concentrated line of energy or particles.

Derivatives

• Beaming (verb, present participle)
• Beamed (verb, past tense)
• Beamer (noun)
• Beamish (adjective, literary)
• Overbeam (verb)

Synonyms

• Ray
• Girder
• Smile

Antonyms

• Shade (for light)
• Scowl (for smile)
• Darken (for emit light)

Usage

The term "beam" is commonly used in construction, physics, and everyday language. In construction, beams are integral structural elements, providing support for buildings, bridges, and other structures. In physics, "beam" refers to focused light or particle streams, such as laser beams or electron beams. Colloquially, "beam" as a verb means to smile radiantly or to transmit light, energy, or signals, often used in contexts like television broadcasting or communications.

Related Terms

• Ray: A line or stream of light or other radiant energy.
• Gird: To support or strengthen, as a beam does in construction.
• Radiate: To emit or spread energy, light, or heat.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A long, sturdy piece of wood, metal, or material used for structural support: Refers to a key element in construction to provide strength and stability.
  • Example: "The steel beam supported the building’s upper floors."
• A concentrated ray or stream of light, particles, or energy: Describes focused energy, as in a laser or flashlight.
  • Example: "A bright beam of light illuminated the room."

Verb

• To emit or radiate light or energy: Refers to the act of producing or sending out light or other forms of energy.
  • Example: "The lighthouse beamed across the harbor."
• To smile broadly or radiantly: Used to describe an expression of happiness or pride.
  • Example: "She beamed with joy at the news."