Definition

1. Noun:

   • A structural beam: A rafter is one of a series of sloping, parallel wooden or metal beams that form the primary framework of a roof, supporting the roof deck and its loads.
   • A person on a raft: (Less common) A rafter is someone who travels on or navigates a raft, typically on a river.

2. Verb:

   • To fit with rafters: To provide or construct a ceiling or roof with the sloping structural beams known as rafters.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Structural beam):
  • The carpenter inspected the old oak rafters for damage.
  • A bird had built its nest in the space between the rafters.
• Noun (Person on a raft):
  • The experienced rafter guided the group safely down the rapids.
• Verb:
  • The builders will rafter the new extension next week.

Advanced Usage

• "Common rafter": A standard rafter that runs from the wall plate to the ridge board in a roof.
• "Hip rafter": A rafter that forms the angle of a hip roof.
• "To be raftered": Describing a space that has exposed roof beams.
  • The cozy attic had a beautifully raftered ceiling.

Variants and Related Words

• Rafting (n): The recreational activity of traveling on a river in a raft.
  • White-water rafting is a popular summer activity.
• Raftered (adj): Fitted with or characterized by having rafters.
  • They dined in the raftered hall.

Synonyms

• Beam: A long, sturdy piece of squared timber or metal used in construction.
• Joist: A parallel beam used to support a floor or ceiling (a horizontal counterpart to a sloping rafter).
• Roof beam: A general term for a beam in a roof structure.

Related Phrases

• From cellar to rafter: Throughout the entire building; from the very bottom to the very top.
  • They searched the house from cellar to rafter but found nothing.

Noun

1. someone who travels by raft
2. one of several parallel sloping beams that support a roof

Verb

1. provide (a ceiling) with rafters