Standard Lemma guide

falsework

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 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.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: uncountable, usually

Topics: engineering, natural-sciences, physical-sciences

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

Scaffolding, a temporary frame serving to support and brace a building under construction until it can stand alone.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: uncountable, usually

Topics: engineering, natural-sciences, physical-sciences

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From false + work.

Across languages

Translations

11 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • French: cintre — temporary framework used in building arches
  • German: Lehrgerüst — temporary framework used in building arches
  • German: Schalung — temporary framework used in building arches
  • French: ouvrage provisoire — temporary frame to support a building under construction
  • French: échafaudage de soutien — temporary frame to support a building under construction
  • French: étayage — temporary frame to support a building under construction
  • French: étaiement — temporary frame to support a building under construction
  • French: étayement — temporary frame to support a building under construction
  • German: Stützgerüst — temporary frame to support a building under construction
  • German: Unterstützung — temporary frame to support a building under construction
  • Thai: นั่งร้าน (nâng-ráan) — temporary frame to support a building under construction