Translation of 'bolt' in English

Bolt

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/boʊlt/

Definitions

  • Noun: A heavy, threaded metal pin or fastener, used to join objects together.
  • Noun: A sudden, fast movement or flash, often used to describe something that happens quickly.
  • Verb: To secure or fasten with a bolt.
  • Verb: To move quickly and suddenly, like a bolt of lightning.

Usage Examples

  • "The worker tightened the bolt to secure the door frame."
  • "A bolt of lightning illuminated the sky during the storm."
  • "He bolted across the field to catch the train."

Etymology

Derived from Middle English "bolte," from Old English "bolt," meaning "bar" or "bolt," and related to the Old Norse "bolt," meaning "a type of wooden bar or fastening." The verb "to bolt" meaning "to move swiftly" comes from the action of a bolt being released quickly.

Synonyms

  • Fastener
  • Pin
  • Latch
  • Bar
  • Lock
  • Dash
  • Race

Antonyms

  • Unfasten
  • Open
  • Loose
  • Stagnate

Translations

Language Translation Pronunciation
Spanish Perno /ˈpeɾno/
French Œillet /wɛjɛ/
German Bolzen /ˈbɔltsn̩/
Italian Chiodo /ˈkjɔːdo/
Russian Болт /bolt/
Chinese (Simplified) 螺栓 /luóshuān/
Japanese ボルト /boruto/
Hindi बोल्ट /bolt/
Arabic مسامير /musaamīr/
Portuguese Parafuso /paɾaˈfuzu/
Greek Μπολτ /bolt/
Bengali বোল্ট /bōlṭ/
Punjabi ਬੋਲਟ /bōlṭ/
Marathi बोल्ट /bōlṭ/

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "bolt" tends to be fairly consistent across English-speaking regions, though some regional accents may pronounce the "t" sound more softly or with a slightly harder "t" sound in parts of North America.

Historical Usage

The word "bolt" was originally used in the sense of a "bar" or "fastener" and has been part of the English language since the 14th century. Over time, its use expanded to describe anything that moves swiftly, as in a "bolt of lightning." The use of "bolt" in fastening hardware became particularly prominent during the Industrial Revolution.

Cultural Nuances

The term "bolt" is often used metaphorically in various cultural contexts, such as describing sudden bursts of activity (e.g., "a bolt of inspiration"). In some cultures, the concept of "bolt" is linked to ideas of security and permanence, especially in the context of securing doors or gates in traditional architecture.

More Information

The bolt as a fastener is essential in numerous fields, including construction, mechanical engineering, and carpentry. Its design has evolved significantly, with modern bolts often made of durable materials like steel, titanium, or plastic. "Bolting" is also a term used in various sports and activities to describe a sudden, rapid motion, as seen in sprinting or quick movement in animals and humans alike.

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