CAMBER, in engineering, the upward convexity given to a beam or girder to allow for the load. If the camber is properly calculated, the cambered member becomes straight when loaded. The word camber is from Fr. cambrer, to arch, and is also used in other connections; e.g., the curve given to a roadway and the curvature of the wing of an aeroplane in imitation of the camber of a bird's wing.
In architecture camber is a slight upward curve to correct the illusion of sagging which a straight unsupported line presents.