timber-framed
|tim-ber-framed|
🇺🇸
/ˈtɪmbərˌfreɪmd/
🇬🇧
/ˈtɪmbə(r)ˌfreɪmd/
built with a wooden frame
Etymology
'timber-framed' originates from Modern English, specifically the combination of the noun 'timber' + the noun 'frame' plus the past-participial suffix '-ed', indicating 'having a frame made of timber'.
'timber' comes from Old English 'timber' meaning 'building, structure, wood' (from Proto-Germanic *timbrą), and 'frame' comes via Old English and Old Norse/Old French elements meaning 'structure' or 'framework'. These elements were joined in Modern English to form the compound adjective 'timber-framed'.
Initially the elements individually referred to 'wood' and 'a structural framework'; combined as 'timber-framed' the meaning has long meant 'built with a timber frame' and has retained that core sense into modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
constructed with a structural frame of timber (wood); having a wooden framework forming the main structure.
They restored the old timber-framed house to preserve its historic character.
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Adjective 2
specifically describes buildings where the timber frame is exposed or part of the visible architectural style.
A row of timber-framed cottages lined the village green, their beams clearly visible.
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Last updated: 2025/11/07 10:31