horizontal span

[/ˌhɒrɪˈzɒntəl spæn/]
nounpl: horizontal spans
vão horizontal
1. The distance or length measured horizontally between two points, supports, or structural elements
The bridge's horizontal span exceeds 500 meters.
O vão horizontal da ponte ultrapassa 500 metros.
2. In architecture and engineering, the unsupported distance of a beam, arch, or structural member extending horizontally
The architect calculated the maximum horizontal span for the roof beam.
O arquiteto calculou o vão horizontal máximo para a viga do telhado.
3. The width or lateral extent of a structure or object measured from side to side
The horizontal span of the building facade is 80 feet.
O vão horizontal da fachada do edifício é de 80 pés.
This is primarily a technical and architectural term used across English and Portuguese-speaking countries. In Brazil, it is commonly employed in construction blueprints, engineering specifications, and architectural discussions. The term reflects the importance of structural design in modern construction and is standardized in both ABNT (Brazilian standards) and European technical documentation.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
horizontal distancespan lengthwidthlateral extentunsupported length
Antonyms / Antônimos
vertical spanvertical distanceheight

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
vão horizontal
Standard term used in architecture and construction throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
vão horizontal
Same as general Brazilian Portuguese
São Paulo
vão horizontal
Same as general Brazilian Portuguese; frequently used in industrial and construction contexts
Portugal
vão horizontal
European Portuguese uses the same term; may also use 'abertura horizontal' in some contexts

Related Words

beamstructural supportarchcantileverjoistengineeringload-bearinglateral measurement

Related Idioms & Phrases

to span horizontally
clear span
effective span
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