Definition

1. Noun:
   • A beam of a balance: "scale-beam" refers to the horizontal bar or lever that is the central part of a balance scale, from which the pans or platforms are suspended. It pivots on a central fulcrum to measure weight.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The old merchant carefully adjusted the scale-beam to ensure the weights were equal. (The horizontal bar of the balance scale was being set correctly.)
  • A broken scale-beam made the scale useless for weighing goods. (The damaged beam prevented accurate measurement.)

Advanced Usage

• "to balance the scale-beam": to adjust the beam of a balance scale so that it is level and accurate.

  • The jeweller balanced the scale-beam before weighing the precious stones. (He made the beam horizontal for precise measurement.)

• "the scale-beam of justice": a metaphorical reference to the beam of a balance scale, symbolizing fairness and impartial judgment.

  • In court, the judge must hold the scale-beam of justice evenly. (The judge must be fair and unbiased.)

Variants and Related Words

• Scale (n): a device for weighing, or a system of ordered marks at fixed intervals used as a reference standard.

  • The kitchen scale is used for measuring ingredients. (A weighing device.)

• Beam (n): a long, sturdy piece of wood or metal used as a structural support or, in this context, the horizontal bar of a balance.

  • The beam of the balance was made of brass. (The horizontal bar.)

Synonyms

• Balance beam: the horizontal bar of a balance scale (used interchangeably, but "balance beam" can also refer to a gymnastics apparatus).
• Weighing beam: a beam used in weighing devices.

Idioms

• "to tip the scale-beam": to cause one side of a balance to become heavier, often used figuratively to mean to decide an outcome.

  • His final argument tipped the scale-beam in favour of the prosecution. (His argument made the decision lean one way.)

• "to hold the scale-beam": to be in a position of judgment or authority.

  • The referee held the scale-beam during the competition, ensuring fairness. (The referee acted as an impartial judge.)

Phrasal Verbs

• : "Scale-beam" is not commonly used with phrasal verbs due to its specialized technical nature. The related verb "to scale" (as in climbing) or "to beam" (as in shining) are not directly applicable.