beam
UK: biːm | US: biːm
n. 1. A long, sturdy piece of squared timber or metal used in construction.
n. 2. A ray or line of light.
n. 3. A bright, happy smile.
vt. 1. To transmit (a signal or light) in a particular direction.
vi. 2. To smile radiantly.
The word "beam" traces back to Old English bēam, meaning "tree" or "piece of wood," reflecting its early use in construction. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe rays of light (as if "projected like timber") and later, joyful expressions (evoking brightness). The dual meaning of physical structure and radiance highlights the word's evolution from concrete to abstract imagery.
The workers lifted the wooden beam into place.
A beam of sunlight streamed through the window.
She couldn't help but beam with pride at her achievement.
The lighthouse beams its light across the harbor.
His face was beaming when he heard the good news.