Common Definition: The standard system of wood framing for homebuilding today. Also known as Platform Framing.

Unauthorized Definition: In the 1800’s balloon framing was popular because it capitalized on the benefits of small standardized wood members for quickly building a home’s structure. Unfortunately, balloon framing came with two serious drawbacks. Since wall studs ran the full two stories, long straight lumber was required. With no separation between floors,  fires quickly engulfed these structures. To minimize fire spread and utilize smaller studs, platform or Western framing was invented. Western framing utilized shorter studs separated between floor framing, providing no open spaces between levels.

For more information see 2×4 (and other Lumber)