structural member

[STRUK-chur-ul MEM-ber]
nounpl: structural members
elemento estrutural
1. A component or part of a building or structure that bears loads and contributes to the overall strength and stability of the construction
The steel beam is a critical structural member that supports the entire floor load.
A viga de aço é um elemento estrutural crítico que suporta toda a carga do piso.
2. Any individual part designed to resist forces such as compression, tension, shear, or bending in a building framework
Columns, beams, and trusses are common structural members in modern architecture.
Colunas, vigas e treliças são elementos estruturais comuns na arquitetura moderna.
This is primarily technical vocabulary used in architecture, civil engineering, and construction industries in both Brazil and the USA. In Brazil, 'elemento estrutural' is the standard academic and professional term, while 'peça estrutural' is also accepted in practical construction contexts. The term reflects the importance of structural integrity in modern building codes and safety standards across both countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
structural elementload-bearing memberbuilding componentstructural component
Antonyms / Antônimos
non-structural elementdecorative element

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
elemento estrutural
Most common term used in Brazilian architecture and engineering
São Paulo
peça estrutural
Alternative term commonly used in construction industry
Rio de Janeiro
elemento estrutural
Standard technical terminology
Portugal
elemento estrutural
Same as Brazil; also uses 'peça estrutural' in technical contexts

Related Words

beamcolumntrussfoundationload-bearingreinforcementframeworkengineering

Related Idioms & Phrases

load-bearing member
primary structure
main structural frame
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