The word "steelyard" is spelled with three syllables: /ˈstiːljɑːd/. The first syllable begins with a long "ē" sound, which is represented by the IPA symbol /iː/. The second syllable has a "y" sound, which is spelled with the digraph "ey". The final syllable contains an "ah" sound, represented by the IPA symbol /ɑː/. The spelling of "steelyard" reflects the word's roots in Middle English and Old French, where the word was spelled "steyre" or "esteire".
A steelyard, also known as a Roman balance or a beam balance, is a type of weighing scale that consists of a horizontal beam which is supported by a pivot point called the fulcrum. It is a mechanical device used for measuring the weight or mass of an object. The beam of a steelyard is divided into unequal segments, where the heavier side contains movable weights and the lighter side holds the object to be weighed. The positional balance of the beam indicates the weight of the object.
Steelyards have been used for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt and China. They were widely adopted due to their simplicity, reliability, and portability. Moreover, steelyards are designed to be counterbalanced, allowing for accurate measurements even when objects of different weights are being weighed.
Steelyards were extensively used in various applications, including trade, commerce, and industry. They were especially prevalent in marketplaces for weighing goods such as grains, spices, and precious metals. In addition, steelyards were utilized in household environments for weighing ingredients, determining the amount of food or other commodities, and even measuring the body weight of individuals.
The term "steelyard" can also refer to the physical structure or device used to support and suspend the beam of the weighing scale. Typically, this structure consists of a metal rod with a hook at the top for attaching the beam, while the bottom end can have a hook or a loop for suspending the object to be weighed.
A balance for weighing bodies, consisting of a single weight shifted backwards and forwards on a graduated beam.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "steelyard" has its origins in Old English. It combines the terms "steel" and "yard".
The term "steel" refers to a type of alloy made of iron and carbon, which was often used to make weighing scales due to its durability. The term "yard" is derived from the Old English word "geard", which meant a rod or stick.
In combination, "steelyard" originally referred to a type of balance or weighing instrument that used a steel rod or beam suspended from a fixed point, with a movable weight that could slide along the rod to measure the weight of an object. Over time, the term "steelyard" has also been used to refer to a type of scale or similar weighing device.