Bolts: meaning, definitions and examples

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bolts

 

[bəʊlts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fastening

A bolt is a type of fastener consisting of a threaded pin or rod, typically used with a nut, that is inserted through holes in assembled parts to hold them together.

Synonyms

pin, rivet, screw.

Examples of usage

  • He used bolts to secure the shelves to the wall.
  • The mechanic tightened the bolts on the car engine.
Context #2 | Noun

lightning

Bolts are sudden flashes of lightning, often seen during a thunderstorm.

Synonyms

lightning bolt, thunderbolt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bolts

In other contexts, it can also mean a sudden movement or dash, often implying speed or urgency.

  • The horse bolted out of the stable
  • She bolted towards the finish line
lightning bolt

Use this term to describe a sudden flash of lightning, typically in the sky during a storm.

  • A lightning bolt lit up the dark sky
  • They watched the lightning bolts from their safe shelter
thunderbolt

This term often describes a combination of lightning and thunder but can also imply a sudden and shocking event or realization.

  • A thunderbolt struck the tree, splitting it in half
  • His resignation came as a thunderbolt to the team

Examples of usage

  • The sky lit up with bolts of lightning.
  • We heard thunder and saw bolts strike the ground.
Context #3 | Verb

running

To bolt means to run away suddenly out of control.

Synonyms

escape, flee, run.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bolts

Used to describe someone or something moving quickly and suddenly, often in a surprising or alarming manner.

  • The rabbit bolts at the sight of a predator
  • As soon as the bell rang, the children bolted out of the classroom

Examples of usage

  • The horse bolted when it heard the loud noise.
  • He bolted from the scene of the accident.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'bolt' comes from the Old English 'bolt', meaning a 'bar' or 'rod', used for fastening.
  • In the past, bolts were commonly made from wood before the use of metal became widespread in construction.
  • The concept of a 'bolt' as a fastener can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Romans and Greeks.

Technology

  • Bolts are essential components in machinery and vehicles, ensuring safety and preventing parts from loosening during movement.
  • Specialized bolts, like hex bolts, are designed for specific applications, from automotive to aerospace engineering.
  • The development of high-strength steel greatly enhanced the effectiveness and usage of bolts in construction and manufacturing.

Pop Culture

  • In the movie 'Bolt', the animated dog believes he has superpowers, linking the idea of bolts with strength and speed.
  • The term 'bolt from the blue' is often used in stories and conversations, referencing unexpected events or surprises.
  • Famous action heroes often use tools with bolts, underscoring their role in creating and fixing technology.

Literature

  • In literature, bolts are sometimes used metaphorically to represent binding relationships or forces that hold things together.
  • The act of 'bolting' can symbolize escape or sudden movement in narratives, often seen in thrillers or adventure tales.
  • Authors often describe characters as having 'bolted feelings', where strong emotions are tightly held or suddenly released.

Safety and Engineering

  • Engineers conduct rigorous tests on bolts to ensure they meet safety standards, especially in buildings and bridges.
  • The torque that a bolt can withstand is crucial in applications; using the wrong torque can lead to failures.
  • Different types of bolts, such as anchor bolts, are vital for securing structures to the ground and preventing collapses.

Translations

Translations of the word "bolts" in other languages:

🇵🇹 parafusos

🇮🇳 बोल्ट्स

🇩🇪 Schrauben

🇮🇩 baut

🇺🇦 болти

🇵🇱 śruby

🇯🇵 ボルト

🇫🇷 boulons

🇪🇸 pernos

🇹🇷 cıvatalar

🇰🇷 볼트

🇸🇦 مسامير

🇨🇿 šrouby

🇸🇰 skrutky

🇨🇳 螺栓

🇸🇮 vijaki

🇮🇸 boltar

🇰🇿 болттар

🇬🇪 ჭანჭიკები

🇦🇿 boltlar

🇲🇽 pernos

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,653 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.