truss

/trəs/

/trəs/

Other forms: trussed; trusses; trussing

A truss is a framework that supports something, like a roof or a bridge. A steel beam that holds up a bridge is called a truss. Another kind of truss is a similar structure that's designed to support a roof.

A truss refers to part of the design of a bridge, overpass, or building; or a medical device that keeps a hernia from bulging. Either way, a truss offers support. You can also use truss as a verb meaning "tie up." Many cooks are familiar with a recipe's instruction to truss a goose, for example, tying its wings and legs together before cooking it. A truss was originally "a collection of things bound together," with the Vulgar Latin root torciare, "to twist."

Definitions of truss

1. noun

   a framework of beams (rafters, posts, struts) forming a rigid structure that supports a roof or bridge or other structure
   type of:

   framework

   a structure supporting or containing something
2. noun

   (architecture) a triangular bracket of brick or stone (usually of slight extent)
   synonyms: corbel

   type of:

   bracket, wall bracket

   a support projecting from a wall (as to hold a shelf)
3. noun

   (medicine) a bandage consisting of a pad and belt; worn to hold a hernia in place by pressure
   type of:

   bandage, patch

   a piece of soft material that covers and protects an injured part of the body
4. verb

   secure with or as if with ropes
   synonyms: bind, tie down, tie up

   types:

   chain up

   tie up with chains

   faggot, faggot up, fagot

   bind or tie up in or as if in a faggot

   faggot, fagot

   fasten together rods of iron in order to heat or weld them

   hog-tie

   tie together somebody's limbs

   type of:

   confine, hold, restrain

   to close within bounds, limit or hold back from movement
5. verb

   tie the wings and legs of a bird before cooking it
   type of:

   bind, tie

   fasten or secure with a rope, string, or cord
6. verb

   support structurally
   “truss the roofs”

   “trussed bridges”

   type of:

   hold, hold up, support, sustain

   be the physical support of; carry the weight of