Cripple Stud
A short stud above a header or below a window sill that maintains wall stud spacing (16" or 24" OC) for sheathing attachment but carries no structural load from above.
In Detail
Cripple studs transfer uniform loads and provide nailing surfaces for sheathing and drywall. They must maintain the wall's standard stud spacing. Above headers, cripples support the top plate. Below window sills, cripples transfer the window and sill load to the bottom plate. Often overlooked by beginners but required by code.