prestress

[ pree-stres ]

verb (used with object)

1. (in certain concrete construction) to apply stress to (reinforcing strands) before subjecting to a load.
2. to make (a concrete member) with prestressed reinforcing strands.

prestress

/ ˌpriːˈstrɛs /

verb

1. tr to apply tensile stress to (the steel cables, wires, etc, of a precast concrete part) before the load is applied

Word History and Origins

Origin of prestress¹

First recorded in 1930–35; pre- + stress