I-beam
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of I-beam
First recorded in 1890–95
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Gamboa was placing an I-beam atop the plant’s paint building when he lost his balance and fell.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 12, 2025
The center I-beam that ran the length of the house was twisted, and the two-by-four plate on top of it was only 7/8-inch thick due to being compressed.
From Seattle Times ● Jul. 17, 2023
She borrows methods and materials from the realm of architectural construction, casting concrete, positioning lengths of I-beam and stacking bricks.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 29, 2019
The visitor points to a jutting I-beam - a rusting broadsword stuck in a metal mound - and wonders how Eisner could get it into her studio.
From Washington Times ● Nov. 14, 2016
He appeared from behind an I-beam and raised his welding shield.
From "Educated" by Tara Westover
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.