underspan
/ˈʌndərspæn/Definitions
1. noun
A structural member extending between two main supports, as in a beam or girder, to provide additional support or to fill a gap between them.
“The engineer designed an underspan to strengthen the bridge’s central section.”
2. verb
To extend or provide additional support under something, especially a structure, to fill a gap or reinforce it.
“They underspans the bridge to increase its load-bearing capacity.”