Opory

Opory is a Polish noun in the plural, derived from opora, with several related meanings that depend on context. In a general sense it denotes supports or bearing elements that provide stability and carry loads.

In architecture and structural engineering, opory are the physical supports of a construction. They include vertical columns, pillars, posts, piers, and foundations that transfer weight to the ground. Opory are essential components of buildings, bridges, machinery, and other engineered systems, and their design and placement influence safety and durability.

In electronics and physics, the root opór refers to electrical resistance. Opory (plural) can denote resistance values in circuits or, less commonly, the components that provide resistance, such as resistors. In contemporary Polish, the term rezystor is more widely used for a resistor, while opornik may appear in older or more specialized texts. The unit of electrical resistance is the ohm (Ω).

In everyday language, opory can also mean obstacles or opposition. Phrases like stawiać opory convey the idea of resistance to progress or change, and opory społeczne describe social resistance or impediments to policy or reform.

The meaning of opory is thus context-dependent, spanning concrete structural elements, electrical properties, and figurative obstacles.