Two-by-fours, also known as studs, are wooden planks used in construction to support walls and ceilings. Synonyms for two-by-fours include planks, beams, joists, and battens. Planks are long, narrow pieces of wood used as a structural component in building and carpentry. Beams are thick, horizontal or vertical pieces of wood used to support weight or spanning an open space. Joists are beams used vertically for support, usually for floors, while battens are thin pieces of wood used for paneling or cladding. These synonyms can be used interchangeably depending on the context of the construction project.