king post

a structural member running vertically between the apex and base of a triangular roof truss.

Machinery. a rotating or stationary column for supporting tackle or booms used in lifting.

Origin of king post

First recorded in 1770–80

Sometimes the roof was held up by a single 'king-post' in place of two queen-posts.

Cheshire |Charles E. Kelsey
Like a battering ram, this king-post could be driven end-onward against the mighty red-iridescent sphere.

The Red One |Jack London
But the old style of king-post, queen-post, or hammer-beam roof was prevalent.

Chats on Old Furniture |Arthur Hayden
The cross rail, or transom, is strengthened by braces and a king-post to make it lighter and cheaper.

Practical Education, Volume II |Maria Edgeworth

The 'king-post' reached from the centre of the tie-beam to the point of the roof.

Cheshire |Charles E. Kelsey

king post

a vertical post connecting the apex of a triangular roof truss to the tie beam Also called: joggle post Compare queen post