rafters

word · lemma: rafter

Definition

Rafters are the long, sloping pieces of wood or metal that support a roof and form its frame. They run from the top of a wall up to the peak of the roof.

Usage & Nuances

Used mainly in construction and architecture, usually in plural form 'rafters.' Often found in the phrase 'up in the rafters' to refer to things high up, not just literal beams—can also refer to high seating in large buildings.

Example Sentences

The old barn's rafters were made of thick wood.

basic

Birds built a nest in the rafters of our garage.

basic

You can see the rafters if you look up at the ceiling.

basic

He hung his lantern from one of the rafters during the blackout.

natural

We could hear squirrels running across the rafters in the attic.

natural

The theater's lights hung way up in the rafters, almost out of sight.

natural