rafter (2)

[A. S. ræfter; cogn. with Dan. raft; Icel. raftra raft, a beam, ráf, ræfr =a roof; cogn. with O. H. Ger. ráfo; M. H. Ger. rávo a spar, a rafter.] Build.: One of the pieces of timber which follows the slope of the roof, and to which is secured the lath into which the shingle or slate nails are driven. The rafter, in one or more lengths, extends from the eave to the ridge of the roof; at its lower end resting on the wall-plates, and at its upper end abutting upon a corresponding rafter rising from the opposite side of the roof, or resting against a crown or ridge plate, as the case may be. Rafters, though all performing the same general duty, have specific names according to their particular functions. (See also Hip-rafter, Jack-rafter, .)