bridge support crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "bridge support crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PIER: A vertical support structure, often made of concrete or masonry, found beneath a bridge's deck.
5 Letters
CABLE: A strong wire rope or bundle of wires used in suspension or cable-stayed bridges to transfer the deck's load to the towers.
TRUSS: A structural framework of connected members, typically forming triangles, used to support a bridge's deck.
6 Letters
COLUMN: A cylindrical or rectangular vertical support element, often used in viaducts or multi-span bridges.
8 Letters
ABUTMENT: A structure at the ends of a bridge span that supports the superstructure and retains the natural ground or an embankment.
BUTTRESS: A projecting support, typically made of stone or brick, built against a wall or an arch to provide stability and resist lateral thrust.
More About "bridge support crossword clue"
The term "bridge support" in a crossword clue often refers to the various architectural and engineering elements crucial for a bridge's structural integrity. These components are designed to bear the weight of the bridge itself, the traffic it carries, and withstand environmental forces like wind and seismic activity. Understanding these specific parts can greatly aid in solving related crossword puzzles.
From the foundational piers that rise from the water or ground to the elegant cables of a suspension bridge, each type of support plays a distinct role. Crossword setters frequently leverage the specific functions or appearances of these elements to create clues that are both challenging and fair. Recognizing the nuances between, say, an abutment (which holds back the earth at the bridge's end) and a pier (a vertical support within the span) can be key to unlocking the correct answer.
Beyond the literal definitions, sometimes "bridge support" clues can hint at more abstract concepts, like metaphorical support, or even play on the "bridge" of a nose or a card game. However, for direct construction-related clues, the answers provided above are your most reliable bets, covering common terms like PIER, CABLE, TRUSS, COLUMN, ABUTMENT, and BUTTRESS.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the provided letter count with potential answers. This is the fastest way to narrow down options for clues like "bridge support."
- Think Broadly and Specifically: For "bridge support," consider both general terms for supports (like PIER) and more specific, technical terms (like ABUTMENT or TRUSS).
- Look for Contextual Clues: Check surrounding words or the puzzle's theme. Is it a general knowledge puzzle, or does it lean towards engineering or architecture? This can guide your thinking.
- Use Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in to confirm or eliminate possibilities for "bridge support."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common types of bridge supports?
The most common types of bridge supports include piers (vertical supports under the deck), abutments (supports at the ends of the bridge), cables (for suspension and cable-stayed bridges), and trusses (frameworks that support the deck).
How do crossword setters clue bridge-related terms?
Crossword setters often use synonyms, functions, or structural descriptions for bridge terms. For 'bridge support', clues might include 'viaduct upright', 'span end', 'suspension link', or 'arch anchor'. They may also use wordplay related to card games (bridge) or dental work (bridge).
Can a single bridge have multiple types of supports?
Yes, absolutely! Many complex bridges, especially long or multi-span structures, incorporate various types of supports. For example, a bridge might use concrete piers for its main spans, abutments at its approaches, and even incorporate truss systems or cable stays depending on its design and the terrain it crosses.