Truss (noun)

1. A framework of timbers, steel, or other material used to support a roof, bridge, or other structure.
2. A device used to support and hold something in place, such as a surgical device used to keep a hernia in place.

Origin:

From old french trusse, meaning a bundle, from trusser ("to bind"), from germanic origin, from proto-germanic *trusjaną ("to press, squeeze"), from proto-indo-european *dru- ("to press, squeeze").

Examples:

1. The truss was used to support the roof of the building.
2. The bridge was built with a steel truss.
3. The truss was used to hold up the stage curtains.
4. The surgeon used a truss to keep the hernia in place.
5. The truss was used to support the load-bearing walls.