A strong framework of beams or bars, usually arranged in triangles, used to support roofs, bridges, or other structures.
From Old French *trousser* “to tie, pack,” giving English *truss* “bundle, support.” The engineering sense developed from the idea of tying parts together into a strong, supportive unit.
Trusses rely on triangles because triangles don’t collapse when pushed—they’re the simplest rigid shape. If you’ve ever walked under a metal bridge or looked up at a roof with criss‑cross beams, you’ve seen giant geometry homework in real life.
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