Meaning of the word beam in English

What does beam mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

beam

US /biːm/

UK /biːm/

a long, sturdy piece of squared timber or metal spanning an opening or part of a building, usually to support the roof or floor above

Example:

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The old house had exposed wooden beams.

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Steel beams were used to construct the skyscraper.

Synonym:

girder joist rafter support bar

a ray or shaft of light

Example:

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A beam of sunlight pierced through the clouds.

•

The lighthouse sent out a powerful beam across the sea.

Synonym:

ray shaft stream gleam flash

to shine brightly, especially in a way that suggests happiness or optimism

Example:

•

She couldn't help but beam when she saw her son.

•

The proud parents beamed at their daughter's graduation.

Synonym:

smile grin radiate glow shine

to transmit (a radio signal or broadcast) in a particular direction

Example:

•

The satellite will beam data back to Earth.

•

They plan to beam the concert live to millions of viewers.

Synonym:

transmit broadcast send radiate project

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