noun
triangular roof truss; gassho-style frame
Architectural term for the triangular framework of a thatched roof, especially in gassho-zukuri farmhouses. The name comes from the shape resembling hands pressed together in prayer (合掌).
See also: 合掌 (がっしょう)
白川郷の合掌造りでは、合掌組が急勾配の屋根を支えている。
In the gassho-zukuri houses of Shirakawa-go, the triangular truss supports the steeply pitched roof.
Compound of 合掌 (gasshō, 'pressing palms together in prayer') + 組 (kumi, 'framework, assembly'), referring to the triangular shape of the roof truss.