truss

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a rigid framework of connected beams that supports a roof, bridge, or other structure

   Engineers inspected each steel truss beneath the bridge deck.

2. 2
   verb

   to tie or bind something tightly, especially the wings and legs of poultry before cooking

   The cook used kitchen twine to truss the chicken before roasting it.

3. 3
   noun

   a supporting belt or padded appliance worn to hold a hernia in place

   The surgeon advised him to wear a truss until the operation.

From Middle English trusse, through Old French trousse, 'bundle,' from a form related to Latin tortus, 'twisted.' The verb first conveyed packing or binding tightly; the noun then named bound bundles, supportive appliances, and rigid assemblies of members whose triangular arrangement holds a structure together.

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