Coupling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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coupling

[ˈkʌplɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mechanical engineering

The action or process of joining two things together, especially in a way that allows them to move together.

Synonyms

attachment, connection, joint, linkage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
coupling

Used when referring specifically to mechanical or physical links between two systems or structures.

  • We need a stronger coupling between these two gears.
  • The coupling between the train cars was faulty.
connection

Broadly used to describe any type of relationship or link between people, ideas, electronic devices, or smaller systems.

  • There is a strong connection between exercise and mental health.
  • The Wi-Fi connection is very weak in this area.
linkage

Commonly used to describe a mechanical system of interconnected parts or the relationship between different ideas or variables.

  • The linkage in the machine needs to be replaced.
  • There is a direct linkage between economic growth and employment rates.
joint

Typically refers to a point where two parts are joined together, often in engineering or human anatomy.

  • The elbow is a hinge joint.
  • They fixed the pipe using a new joint.
attachment

Appropriate for describing something that is attached or added to an existing device, object, or e-mail.

  • Please check the attachment in the email for the report.
  • The blender comes with several attachments for different tasks.

Examples of usage

  • Ensure proper coupling of the gears.
  • The coupling between the engine and the wheels is essential for the car to move.
  • Make sure the coupling is secure before starting the machine.
Context #2 | Noun

relationships

The relationship between two people or things.

Synonyms

bond, connection, relationship, tie.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
coupling

Typically used in mechanical or technical contexts to describe the action of connecting two parts together.

  • The technician adjusted the coupling to ensure the machine ran smoothly
bond

Often used to describe a strong emotional or chemical attachment. Can be used in personal relationships or scientific contexts.

  • The bond between mother and child is unbreakable
  • Water is formed by the bonding of hydrogen and oxygen atoms
connection

Commonly used to describe a link or association between people, places, or things. Less intense than 'bond'.

  • There is a strong connection between diet and health
  • He felt an immediate connection when he met her
relationship

Used to talk about the way in which two or more people, things, or groups interact with each other. Can be professional, personal, or romantic.

  • Their professional relationship is built on trust and respect
  • She is looking for a serious relationship
tie

Often used in the context of an emotional or social bond between people, with a sense of mutual obligation or attachment. Can have a slightly old-fashioned connotation.

  • Family ties are very important in their culture
  • They have strong ties to their hometown

Examples of usage

  • There is a strong coupling between the characters in the movie.
  • The coupling between the two ideas is evident in the essay.
Context #3 | Noun

electronics

The transfer of energy between circuits by direct electrical connection.

Synonyms

connection, interconnection, linkage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
coupling

Used when referring to two things being joined together, often in a mechanical or physical sense. It can also mean a partnership or pairing.

  • The engineer repaired the coupling in the machine
  • Their professional coupling resulted in several successful projects
connection

Utilized in various contexts, including physical linking, relationships, or networking. It has a broad application, from human connections to internet or electrical connections.

  • We need a faster internet connection
  • She felt a strong connection with her new friend
linkage

Highlights the action or state of linking things together, often used in contexts involving chains or sequences. It can also refer to relationships between ideas or entities.

  • The linkage between economic policies and market performance is clear
  • They designed a complex mechanical linkage for the prototype
interconnection

Focuses on systems or networks where multiple connections form a complex web. It's usually associated with technical or electronic systems.

  • The interconnection of computers in the office improved efficiency
  • The interconnection between these two systems is crucial

Examples of usage

  • The coupling of the amplifier to the speaker is crucial for sound quality.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, coupling refers to the interaction between two physical systems, like how magnets attract each other.
  • In biology, coupling can describe how one reaction in a cell triggers another, working together like teammates.
  • In electrical engineering, coupling helps connect circuits to allow for communication between different devices!

Literature

  • In literature, romantic couplets often explore themes of love and partnership, illustrating emotional coupling between characters.
  • Famous works like 'Pride and Prejudice' showcase nuanced coupling through the relationships formed and evolved throughout the story.
  • Poets often use coupling to create rhythm and rhyme, linking ideas and emotions verses together.

Technology

  • In software engineering, coupling refers to how closely connected different parts of a program are; lower coupling is often better.
  • In the automotive industry, coupling can refer to how different systems, like the engine and transmission, communicate.
  • Mechanical coupling is used in machines to connect different components, ensuring they work seamlessly together.

Cultural Insights

  • In many cultures, coupling is viewed positively, symbolizing unity, partnership, and collaboration.
  • Couples in relationships often attend workshops to deepen their connection, highlighting the importance of emotional coupling.
  • Traditions like weddings celebrate coupling, marking the union of two people in many societies worldwide.

Origin of 'coupling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'cople', meaning 'to join or link'.
  • It was used in the English language during the late 14th century, initially to refer to pairs of things.
  • The modern sense of joining mechanisms began to appear in the 19th century within engineering.

The word 'coupling' originates from the Middle English word 'coplen', which means 'to join together'. It has been used in various contexts over the centuries, from mechanical engineering to relationships and electronics. The concept of coupling has always revolved around the idea of joining or connecting two entities. The word has evolved to represent not just physical connections but also emotional and electrical connections.


See also: coupled, decouple.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,093 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.