falsework

A temporary framework used in the building of bridges and arched structures in order to hold items in place until the structure is able to support itself.

Noun

  1. A temporary framework used in the building of bridges and arched structures in order to hold items in place until the structure is able to support itself.
    • Both steel and timber forms were used, supported on a falsework of steel beams erected on the new abutments at each end and on temporary piles which were driven into the river bed at mid-span. - 1955 February, “Notes...
    • Each [girder] measuring 38 metres long, they will sit below four steel tripods which will support the falsework and formwork. - 2024 May 17, “Network News: Viaduct carrying HS2 into Curzon Street takes shape”, in RAIL,...
  2. Scaffolding, a temporary frame serving to support and brace a building under construction until it can stand alone.
    • ... the woefully incomplete Ferris Wheel ... was a half-moon of steel encased in a skyscraper of wooden falsework. - 2003, Erik Larson, The Devil in the White City, page 236:

Origin

From false + work.

Forms

falseworks