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strut

1. The act of strutting; a pompous step or walk.

2. In general, any piece of a frame which resists thrust or pressure in the direction of its own length. See brace, and Illust. Of Frame, and roof.

3. (Science: engineering) Any part of a machine or structure, of which the principal function is to hold things apart; a brace subjected to compressive stress; the opposite of stay, and tie.

Origin: For senses 2 & 3 cf. LG. Strutt rigid.