purlin

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a horizontal or longitudinal structural member in a roof that supports the rafters or roof covering

   Heavy oak purlins supported the rafters across the width of the hall.

From late Middle English purlyn or purloyne. The deeper origin is uncertain, though some forms may reflect Anglo-French influence. The term has been used in English building practice since the fifteenth century for a horizontal roof member supporting rafters or roof sheeting.

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