Beam Meaning
Beam Definition & Usage
A long, sturdy piece of timber or metal used to support structures.
Examples
- "The construction crew installed a new steel beam to support the roof."
- "She hung the chandelier from a beam in the ceiling."
- "The bridge's beams were reinforced to handle the heavy traffic."
- "Workers painted the wooden beams to protect them from rot."
- "The old barn had beams that were over a century old."
A ray or shaft of light.
Examples
- "A beam of sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating the room."
- "The lighthouse emitted a powerful beam across the ocean."
- "She watched as a beam of light passed through the prism, creating a rainbow."
- "The photographer captured the beam of moonlight reflecting on the lake."
- "He shielded his eyes from the beam of headlights approaching down the road."
To smile radiantly or to express joy.
Examples
- "She beamed with pride at her graduation."
- "He beamed as he opened the surprise gift."
- "The children beamed with excitement during the holiday festivities."
- "She couldn't help but beam at the compliment from her friend."
- "He always beams whenever he talks about his family."
Cultural Context
The word 'beam' has various meanings rooted in its physical connotations related to structural support and light. It is commonly used in literature, architecture, and everyday conversation.
The Day the Beams Shone Bright
Story
The Day the Beams Shone Bright
Once upon a time in the small village of Eldervale, the townsfolk had gathered to celebrate the annual Harvest Festival. The sun was shining radiantly, casting beams of light through the golden leaves of the old oak trees. Sara, a young girl with sparkling eyes, looked up at her father, who was busy fixing a wooden beam on their porch. "Can I help, Dad?" she asked eagerly. Her father smiled, his face beaming with pride. "Of course! Can you hold this end steady while I secure the other side?" As they worked together, their laughter filled the air, intermingling with the joyful sounds from the festival. From the distance, the beam of light from the village's clock tower broke through the festive decorations, creating a magical scene. Later, as they joined the crowd, Sara's eyes widened at the sight of colorful lights, lively music, and bustling stalls. She beamed with excitement as she spotted the balloon stand. "Look! Can I have one, please?" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with joy. After getting a bright red balloon, she ran towards her friends, waving it high, a beam of color against the deepening evening sky. As night fell, the beams from lanterns illuminated the pathways, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The festival felt more alive than ever under the twinkling stars, and Sara couldn't help but feel thankful for days filled with sunshine, laughter, and the simple joy of togetherness. The evening ended with fireworks painting the sky, each burst illuminating the faces of the townsfolk—each one beaming with joy, reflecting the happiness that the day had brought.