Definition

A vertical post that supports a roof or a beam in a building, often found in timber framing.

Example

The architect designed the house with a strong kingpost to support the roof structure.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a kingpost in architecture?

Yeah, I think it's used to support roofs, right?

Exactly! It plays a crucial role in keeping structures stable.

I find that really interesting; architecture has so many cool elements!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Kingpost** → The word is formed from "king" (from Old English *cyning*, meaning ruler or monarch) and "post" (from Old English *post*, meaning a vertical support or pillar). A kingpost refers to a central vertical support in a roof structure, symbolically representing the 'king' of the structure that holds it up.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'ruler' ('king') that acts as a 'support' ('post') in a building — that's why a kingpost is a central support in a roof.

Visually Confused Words