Bailey bridge

noun

"-
: a bridge designed for rapid construction from interchangeable latticed panels of high-tensile steel that are coupled with alloy steel pins set into ready-made holes to form girders and laid double or triple or superposed to suit the span and load

Word History

Etymology

After Sir Donald C. Bailey, born 1901 English engineer who designed it

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Bailey bridge was in 1942

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near Bailey bridge

Cite this Entry

“Bailey bridge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Bailey%20bridge. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!