Clamped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clamped

[klæmpt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

To clamp something means to hold it tightly in a fixed position. This action is often used in contexts like woodworking or metalwork, where pieces need to be secured together to prevent movement.

Synonyms

attach, fasten, secure.

Examples of usage

  • He clamped the wood securely before drilling holes.
  • The technician clamped the wires to prevent them from moving.
  • She used a vice to clamp the metal pieces tightly.
Context #2 | Adjective

fixed state

Clamped can also describe something that is held tightly and securely in a position. This term is used to illustrate that an object is firmly held and unable to move.

Synonyms

fitted, secured, tightened.

Examples of usage

  • The clamped pipe ensured no leakage occurred.
  • His hand was clamped down tightly on the handle.
  • The clamped materials were ready for welding.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Clamps are crucial in experiments, providing stable conditions for reactions or measurements.
  • In physics, the concept of clamping can refer to how forces are applied to hold objects in place, illustrating stability and equilibrium.
  • Some types of clamps, like those used in dentistry, prevent patient movement during procedures, highlighting their role in health and safety.

Pop Culture

  • Clamps appear in popular TV shows, often in comedic sketches where characters try to escape from tight situations, adding humor.
  • In the series 'Futurama', a character named Professor Farnsworth invents various clamping devices for his wild experiments, showcasing their quirky utility.
  • Clamps are often featured in DIY videos, reflecting modern culture's interest in home improvement and crafts.

Technology

  • In engineering, clamps are vital for assembling structures, ensuring everything fits and stays secure during the building process.
  • Innovations in clamp design, such as quick-release mechanisms, enhance efficiency and usability in workshops and labs.
  • Clamp technology also extends to photography, where they hold lighting or equipment firmly, reflecting the diverse applications of the concept.

Psychology

  • The act of clamping down can be related to psychological pressure, such as holding onto stress tightly, much like a physical clamp.
  • Metaphorically, when people feel 'clamped' in stressful situations, they often experience a need to release or loosen these pressures in their lives.
  • The imagery of being clamped can evoke feelings of confinement, which can be explored in therapy to understand personal challenges.

Origin of 'clamped'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'clamp' comes from the Old English word 'clamm', meaning a bond or a grip.
  • Historically, clamps were essential in woodworking and metalworking, showing how they've been used for centuries.
  • Similar terms in other languages, such as 'serrar' in Spanish, reflect a common theme of fastening or holding tight.

The word 'clamp' originates from the Middle English term 'clampe', which was derived from the Old English word 'clam', meaning 'to close, fetter, or bind'. The evolution of the term reflects not only its practical use in engineering and craft but also the metaphorical extension of being held firmly or restrained. As technology and methods of fastening have advanced, the term has been adapted to cover a broader range of tools and actions, while still retaining its core meaning of securing objects together. The versatility of 'clamp' has embedded it in various industries, from carpentry to mechanics, signifying its importance in both modern and traditional practices.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,072, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.