In the construction of a frame house, the short horizontal 2" x 4" boards above a window opening are commonly called a lintel or a:

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A header is a short horizontal board placed above a window or door opening to provide support for the structure above. Lintel is also a correct term, but it is more commonly used for larger, heavier beams or stones that span a wider opening. Cripple, sole plate, and fire stop are all different components of a wall frame but are not specifically related to window or door openings.

In the Construction of a Frame House, the Short Horizontal