Compression member

Member Mem"ber, n. [OE. membre, F. membre, fr. L. membrum; cf. Goth. mimz flesh, Skr. mamsa.] [1913 Webster] 1. (Anat.) A part of an animal capable of performing a distinct office; an organ; a limb. [1913 Webster]

We have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office. --Rom. xii. 4. [1913 Webster]

2. Hence: A part of a whole; an independent constituent of a body; as: (a) A part of a discourse or of a period or sentence; a clause; a part of a verse. (b) (Math.) Either of the two parts of an algebraic equation, connected by the sign of equality. (c) (Engin.) Any essential part, as a post, tie rod, strut, etc., of a framed structure, as a bridge truss. (d) (Arch.) Any part of a building, whether constructional, as a pier, column, lintel, or the like, or decorative, as a molding, or group of moldings. (e) One of the persons composing a society, community, or the like; an individual forming part of an association; as, a member of the society of Friends. (f) (Math.) one of the elements which, taken together, comprise a set. (g) (Math.) one of the individual objects which comprise a group or class. [1913 Webster +PJC]

{Compression member}, {Tension member} (Engin.), a member, as a rod, brace, etc., which is subjected to compression or tension, respectively. [1913 Webster]