ridgepole

noun

ridge·​pole ˈrij-ˌpōl How to pronounce ridgepole (audio)
1
: the highest horizontal timber in a roof against which the upper ends of the rafters are fixed
2
: the horizontal pole at the top of a tent

Illustration of ridgepole

Illustration of ridgepole
  • 1 ridgepole 1
  • 2 rafters

Examples of ridgepole in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Erect a ridgepole between trees and tilt branches against one side to make a lean-to framework. Keith McCafferty/field & Stream, Popular Science, 26 Jan. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ridgepole.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1774, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ridgepole was in 1774

Dictionary Entries Near ridgepole

Cite this Entry

“Ridgepole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ridgepole. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

ridgepole

noun
ridge·​pole ˈrij-ˌpōl How to pronounce ridgepole (audio)
1
: the highest horizontal timber in a sloping roof to which the upper ends of the rafters are fastened
2
: the horizontal pole at the top of a tent

More from Merriam-Webster on ridgepole

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