A long, sturdy piece of squared timber or metal used to support the roof or floor of a building. The old barn was held up by several large wooden beams.
A beam of sunlight broke through the clouds and illuminated the valley.
A broad beam spread across his face when he saw the surprise.
The width of a ship at its widest point. The ship's beam was measured to ensure it could pass through the narrow channel.
A horizontal bar used in gymnastics, typically 4 inches wide and 16 feet long, on which gymnasts perform balancing exercises. The gymnast executed a flawless routine on the balance beam.
A directed stream of particles or energy other than visible light. The accelerator generates a beam of protons to test the material's resilience.
To emit light or energy in the form of rays or waves. The lighthouse beamed its light across the dark sea.
To smile broadly and radiantly. She beamed with joy when she received the good news.
To transmit a signal or broadcast. The satellite beamed the television signal to homes across the country.
To direct or aim something, such as a look or a message. He beamed his approval at the team from across the room.
Science fiction: to transport (a person or object) instantaneously by means of a beam of energy; to teleport. The captain ordered the engineer to beam them back to the ship.
To strengthen, furnish, or support (a structure) with beams. The builders beamed the floor to bear the additional load.