Flitch

/flɪtʃ/ noun

Definition

A side of bacon or pork; also, a slab or piece of timber.

Etymology

From Old English 'flicce' or related to Old Norse 'flytja' (to carry), possibly referring to a movable, separable piece. Used in carpentry and butchering since medieval times.

Kelly Says

The word 'flitch' is part of a whole architectural system—a 'flitched beam' or 'flitch plate' is a clever engineering solution that combines wood and metal to make stronger structures, and buildings using this method can still be found in centuries-old houses.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.