I. ˈjȯist dial ˈjīst noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English giste, geste, from Middle French giste, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin jacitum, from Latin jacēre to lie + -itum (neuter of -itus, past participial ending) — more at gist
1.
a. : any of the small rectangular-sectioned timbers or rolled iron or steel beams ranged parallel from wall to wall in a structure or resting on beams or girders to support the planking, pavement, tiling, or flagging of a floor or the laths or furring strips of a ceiling — see binding joist , bridging joist , ceiling joist , trimming joist
b. : a similar timber supporting the floor of a bridge or other structure
2. : a stud or scantling about 3 by 4 inches in section
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joists
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II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
: to furnish with joists