How Do You Spell BASCULE BRIDGE?

Pronunciation: [bˈaskjuːl bɹˈɪd͡ʒ] (IPA)

Bascule bridge is a type of drawbridge which requires much less space than a swing bridge or a lift bridge. The word "bascule" is pronounced as /ˈbæskjuːl/ and comes from the French term "bascule" meaning "see-saw". It's spelled with a "b" instead of a "v" because the original French word was spelled with a "b". The spelling in English remains the same as it was borrowed from the French language, though the pronunciation may differ depending on the dialect.

Meaning and Definition
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BASCULE BRIDGE Meaning and Definition

  1. A bascule bridge refers to a type of movable bridge that operates through a system of counterweights and pivoting structures. Commonly found in waterway crossings, a bascule bridge is designed to accommodate the passage of boats and ships while maintaining a traffic route for vehicles or pedestrians.

    The term "bascule" is derived from the French word for "seesaw" due to the bridge's characteristic pivoting motion. This type of bridge consists of two main segments or leaves that are hinged at one end and can be raised or lowered independently. The leaf closer to the waterway acts as a counterweight to facilitate the movement of the other leaf. The bridge operates by raising the pivoting leaves at an angle, allowing clearance for passing vessels, and then returning them to a level position to restore the traffic passage.

    Bascule bridges usually employ mechanical or hydraulic systems to accomplish the lifting and lowering mechanism. Balance is maintained through the use of large counterweights located within the bridge structure. The counterweights serve to offset the weight of the raised leaf, preventing it from tilting too far in one direction.

    These bridges are prevalent in many coastal cities and areas with significant water traffic. They provide a reliable and efficient solution for allowing both land and marine transportation to coexist harmoniously, as the leaves of the bascule bridge can be easily raised and lowered on demand. Bascule bridges are often considered engineering marvels due to their intricate design and ability to adapt to various sizes of watercraft while maintaining a safe passage for vehicles and pedestrians.

Etymology of BASCULE BRIDGE

The word "bascule" is derived from the French verb "bascule", which means "seesaw" or "tilt". The term "bascule bridge" originates from this French verb, as these bridges operate on a principle similar to that of a seesaw. A bascule bridge consists of a section that can be raised and lowered using a counterweight system to allow the passage of boats or ships. The term was first used in the late 19th century when this type of movable bridge design became popular.