Bridge Terminology

Front

Abutment

Back

A solid masonry support for the end of a bridge or arch which carries the load from the deck.

Front

Arch Bridge

Back

A curved structure that converts the downward force of its own weight, and of any weight pressing down on top of it, into an outward force along its sides and base.

Front

Beam Bridge

Back

The simplest type of bridge; a rigid horizontal structure and two supports, one at each end, to rest it on.

Front

Cable

Back

A structural element formed from steel wire bound in strands; the suspending element in a bridge.

Front

Civil Engineer

Back

A type of engineer who plans, designs, and supervises the construction of facilities essential to modern life.

Front

Clearance

Back

Distance from the bridge deck down to the ground or water surface.

Front

Compression

Back

The stress resulting from a pushing force on a structure.

Front

Deck

Back

Supported roadway on a bridge.

Front

Foundation

Back

Base of a bridge that connects the structure to the earth and transfers loads from it to the ground below.

Front

Hanger

Back

A tension member serving to suspend an attached cable.