structure that spans horizontally between supports, whose function is to carry vertical loads.

a structure carrying a pathway or roadway over a depression or obstacle (such as a river)

http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85016829

Billington, David P., Billington, Philip N., Shirley-Smith, Hubert. "bridge". Encyclopedia Britannica, 5 Aug. 2026, https://www.britannica.com/technology/bridge-engineering. Accessed 20 August 2026.

“Bridge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bridge. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.