Definition

Noun: A fundamental architectural and construction system where two or more upright components (posts) support a horizontal component (lintel) placed across their tops. This creates a simple, trabeated (beamed) structure, often forming an opening like a door or window, or the basic support for a roof.

Usage

This term is used to describe a specific, ancient structural principle in architecture and building. * The post and lintel is one of the simplest and oldest forms of construction. * Stonehenge is a famous prehistoric example of post and lintel architecture. * The architect used a classical post and lintel design for the entrance of the museum.

Advanced Usage

• As a structural principle: The term is often used to discuss the fundamental engineering concept, distinct from arches or vaults.
  • Greek temples are renowned for their elegant use of the post and lintel system.
• In historical context: Frequently used when describing ancient Egyptian, Greek, or Megalithic structures.
  • The development of the arch eventually allowed builders to move beyond the limitations of the post and lintel.

Variants and Related Words

• Trabeated (adj): Describing architecture characterized by the use of beams or the post and lintel principle, as opposed to arcuated (arch-based) construction.
  • The style is strictly trabeated, with no curves or arches.
• Lintel (n): The horizontal beam or stone that rests on the posts.
• Post (n): The vertical supporting member.

Synonyms

• Trabeation: The use of or construction with a post and lintel system.
• Beam-and-column: A functionally similar modern engineering term.

Related Concepts (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Entablature: In classical architecture, the superstructure (including the lintel/architrave, frieze, and cornice) that lies horizontally upon the posts/columns.
• Span: The distance between the posts that the lintel must bridge. The post and lintel system is limited by the material strength of the lintel over a long span.

Noun

1. a structure consisting of vertical beams (posts) supporting a horizontal beam (lintel)