Cruck

Crucks: 1) Pair of curved timbers extending from ground to roof ridge supporting wall and roof of a building.   (Kenyon, John R. Medieval Fortifications, 211)2) Primitive truss formed by two main timbers, usually curved, set up as arch or inverted V. Each cruck is called a blade, and a pair may be cut from the same tree.   (Wood, Margaret. The English Medieval House, 411)