A stud refers to a relatively slender, vertical framing member used to form the structural skeleton or framework of walls in buildings. These studs are typically made of wood, specifically 2x4 or 2x6 dimensional lumber, though metal studs are also used in some construction projects.

Studs are installed upright and placed at regular intervals along the length of a wall. They provide the vertical support and framework to which other building materials, such as drywall, sheathing, siding, or insulation, can be attached.

The most common spacing for studs in wall framing is 16 inches on center (16 inches apart from the center of one stud to the center of the next), but in some cases, 24 inches on center spacing may be used depending on the building design, local building codes, and structural requirements. These studs work in conjunction with other framing elements, such as headers, sills, and plates, to create a sturdy and supportive structure for the building.