live load

noun

a variable load on a structure (e.g. a bridge) such as moving traffic

• Syn: ↑superload

• Hypernyms: ↑load, ↑loading, ↑burden

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noun

1. : the load (as furniture and persons) to which a structure is subjected in addition to its own weight not including wind load, earthquake shocks, and such effects as the centrifugal force acting on railroad bridges located on curves, tractive effort, and impact due to sudden application of the load — compare dead load

2. : the weight of passengers or cargo carried by a vehicle

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/luyv/. Engin.

See under load (def. 11).

[1865-70]

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live load noun

A moving weight or variable force on a structure

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Main Entry: ↑live

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live load «lyv»,

1. the load that a bridge, floor, or other structure must support in addition to its own weight, such as the load of vehicles, people, or furniture.

2. a temporary moving load on a structure.

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[līv]

n. the weight of people or goods in a building or vehicle. Often contrasted with dead load