der Balken
Translation
beam, rafter, bar, joist
Examples
Ein dicker Holzbalken stützt das Dach.
A thick wooden beam supports the roof.
Der Ladebalken auf dem Bildschirm ist rot.
The loading bar on the screen is red.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.acc)) to support sth. A beam supports the roof.
((as subject)) as a subject The beam is strong.
Similar Words
Träger (girder), Stütze (support)
Etymology
From Old High German 'balko', related to the English word 'balk'. Originally meant a partition or beam.
Memory Tips
It sounds like 'bulk', and a beam is a bulky piece of wood. Also related to 'balcony'.