Strut (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Strutted (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Strutting.] [OE. struten, strouten, to swell; akin to G. strozen to be swelled, to be puffed up, to strut, Dan. strutte.]
1.
To swell; to bulge out.
[R.]
The bellying canvas strutted with the gale.
Dryden.
2.
To walk with a lofty, proud gait, and erect head; to walk with affected dignity.
Does he not hold up his head, . . . and strut in his gait?
Shak.
© Webster 1913.
Strut, n. [For senses 2 & 3 cf. LG. strutt rigid.]
1.
The act of strutting; a pompous step or walk.
2. Arch.
In general, any piece of a frame which resists thrust or pressure in the direction of its own length. See Brace, and Illust. of Frame, and Roof.
3. Engin.
Any part of a machine or structure, of which the principal function is to hold things apart; a brace subjected to compressive stress; -- the opposite of stay, and tie.
© Webster 1913.
Strut, v. t.
To hold apart. Cf. Strut, n., 3.
© Webster 1913.
Strut, a.
Protuberant.
[Obs.]
Holland.
© Webster 1913.