wall plate

noun

plate (a timber along the top of a wall) to support the ends of joists, etc., and distribute the load

• Hypernyms: ↑plate

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noun

Etymology: Middle English walplate

1. : plate 5a(1) — see roof illustration

2. : one of the main side timbers of a mine shaft — compare end plate

3. : switch plate

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1. Also called raising plate. Building Trades. a horizontal member built into or laid along the top of a wall to support and distribute the pressure from joists, rafters, etc.

2. Mach. a vertical metal plate secured against a wall, as to attach a bracket.

3. Mining. one of the longer members of a set. Cf. end plate.

4. See switch plate.

[1350-1400; ME]

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wall plate noun

A horizontal piece of timber or of rolled steel on a wall, etc, to bear the ends of joists, etc

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Main Entry: ↑wall

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wall plate,

1. a timber (plate) placed horizontally in or along a wall, under the ends of girders, joists, or rafters, to distribute pressure.

2. a metal plate fastened to a wall or ceiling as a support or place of attachment for machinery, a bracket, anchor in a building, or heavy load.

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n.

1) a piece of lumber laid horizontally in or on a wall as a support for a girder, rafter, or joist

2) a metal plate fixed to a wall, for attaching a bracket or other device