lintel Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun horizontal beam used as a finishing piece over a door or window
    header.

WordNet

Lin"tel noun
Etymology
OE. lintel, F. linteau, LL. lintellus, for limitellus, a dim. fr. L. limes limit. See Limit.
Definitions
  1. (Arch.) A horizontal member spanning an opening, and carrying the superincumbent weight by means of its strength in resisting crosswise fracture.

Webster 1913