Fasten Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fasten

[หˆfรฆsษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

clothing

To make something secure or to close an opening by attaching it with a fastener.

Synonyms

attach, fix, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fasten

Used when talking about making something firmly fixed or held in place, often with mechanical means like buttons, buckles, or zippers.

  • Please fasten your seatbelt before the plane takes off.
  • She had to fasten the buttons on her coat because it was cold outside.
secure

This term is generally used when ensuring safety or stability, making sure something wonโ€™t move, open, or unauthorizedly access.

  • Make sure to secure the door before leaving.
  • They secured the tent to prevent it from blowing away in the wind.
attach

Typically used when referring to joining one thing to another, especially using an adhesive, string, or some form of connection.

  • You need to attach the photos to the email.
  • He will attach the label to the package.
fix

Often used when something is broken and needs to be repaired, or to mean making something stay in a specific position.

  • I need to fix the broken chair.
  • Fix the painting to the wall so it doesn't fall.

Examples of usage

  • She fastened her seatbelt before takeoff.
  • He fastened the buttons on his shirt.
Context #2 | Verb

construction

To join two or more things together by using a fastening device.

Synonyms

attach, connect, join.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fasten

Used when securing something firmly, typically in a physical sense, such as with a belt, buckle, or clasp.

  • Please fasten your seatbelt before the car starts moving.
  • She fastened the necklace around her neck.
join

Used when bringing two or more things together to form a whole, often in a more general or abstract sense. It can also refer to becoming a member of a group.

  • Join the two pieces of wood with nails.
  • He decided to join the soccer team.
connect

Typically used to describe joining two devices or systems so that they can communicate or work together, or linking concepts.

  • You need to connect the printer to the computer via USB cable.
  • Can you connect these ideas more clearly in your essay?
attach

Used when connecting or affixing something to another object, often in a more temporary or less secure manner.

  • Please attach the document to the email.
  • She attached the photo to the bulletin board with a pin.

Examples of usage

  • The carpenter fastened the pieces of wood with nails.
  • They fastened the wires to the ceiling.
Context #3 | Noun

mechanical

A device or piece of material used to secure or close something.

Synonyms

buckle, clasp, clip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fasten

Used again in the generic sense, similar to the first entry. This word fits universally for any kind of securing or attaching actions.

  • Please fasten your coat before going out
  • Fasten the rope to the post tightly
clasp

Typically used for securing jewelry or small objects, often with a small fastening device like a hook or latch.

  • She clasped her necklace around her neck
  • The bracelet has a delicate clasp
buckle

Specifically used when referring to securing something using a buckle, such as belts, shoes, or straps.

  • He buckled his belt before leaving the house
  • She struggled to buckle her sandals
clip

Used when attaching or securing something with a small, usually spring-loaded device. Often used for paper, hair, or accessories.

  • He clipped the papers together with a paperclip
  • She clipped the hair accessory into her hair

Examples of usage

  • She used a buckle as a fasten for her belt.
  • The fasten on the door was broken.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In engineering, different fastening techniques (like screws, bolts, and adhesives) are crucial for the safety and durability of structures.
  • Understanding the forces involved in fastening can prevent material failure, emphasizing its importance in construction.
  • Innovative fastening systems in materials science are being developed to improve efficiency and sustainability in various industries.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the act of fastening or securing symbols (like a lock or a knot) represents trust and commitment.
  • Fashion often incorporates fastening techniques, from buttons to zippers, which express personal style and functionality.
  • In traditional crafts, techniques for fastening materials like weaving or sewing create unique cultural artifacts and preserve heritage.

Literature

  • Writers often use the concept of fastening in metaphors to indicate relationships or bonds between characters that are tightly knit.
  • In poetry, the image of fastening can evoke emotions of security, responsibility, or being emotionally tied to someone.
  • Famous literary works sometimes explore themes of freedom vs. binding, where fastening can symbolize constraint or lifeโ€™s attachments.

Psychology

  • Psychologically, the act of fastening can represent the need for safety and stability in oneโ€™s life and relationships.
  • Research shows that people often seek stability and certainty, which can be analogous to how we fasten things in the physical world.
  • In child development, teaching kids to fasten their clothing can instill a sense of independence and confidence in managing tasks.

Origin of 'fasten'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fasten' comes from the Old English 'fรฆstnian', which means to make fast or secure.
  • It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'fastลnฤ…', which also means to hold firmly.
  • Historically, this word has evolved to encompass various forms of securing, from clothing to machinery.

The word 'fasten' originated from Old English 'fรฆstnian', which means 'to make fast'. The term has been in use since the 14th century. Over time, the word evolved to encompass various meanings related to securing or closing objects. The concept of fastening has been essential in human history for the development of tools, clothing, and structures.


See also: fast, fastball, fastness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,931, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.