Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
King-post
King′-postˊ
,Noun.
(Carp.)
A member of a common form of truss, as a roof truss. It is strictly a tie, intended to prevent the sagging of the tiebeam in the middle. If there are struts, supporting the main rafters, they often bear upon the foot of the king-post. Called also
crown-post
.