榱 (cuī) - Rafter — a structural beam in traditional Chinese

榱Tone 1

cuī ｜ 14 strokes ｜ radical:

橙丁

榱 · cuī

Rafter — a structural beam in traditional Chinese architecture that supports the roof.

Rafter — a structural beam in traditional Chinese

Usage highlights

Rafter and purlinMain rafterWooden rafterRafter beamCarved rafterRafter structure

Synonyms

  • 椽— rafter (smaller beam)
  • 梁— beam (larger horizontal support)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The ancient hall had massive rafters (榱) supporting the roof.
  • Carpenters carefully measured each rafter (榱子) for the temple.
  • Traditional architecture uses wooden rafters (木榱) for roof support.
  • The main rafter (大榱) was carved with intricate patterns.

Collocations

  • Rafter and purlin(榱椽)
  • Main rafter(大榱)
  • Wooden rafter(木榱)
  • Rafter beam(榱梁)
  • Carved rafter(雕榱)
  • Rafter structure(榱架)

Idioms

  • Rafter and ridgepole stand out(榱栋显明)
  • Measure rafters for construction(量榱建屋)
  • The rafter is the first to rot(榱先腐)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • 榱 represents sophisticated wooden architecture in ancient China, particularly in palaces and temples.
  • In classical texts, 榱 often symbolizes structural integrity and architectural craftsmanship.
  • The character appears in historical records describing imperial construction projects.

FAQ