Lathe: meaning, definitions and examples

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lathe

 

[ leɪð ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

machining tool

A lathe is a machine tool that rotates a workpiece about an axis to perform various operations such as shaping, cutting, drilling, or sanding. It is commonly used in woodturning and metalworking. The operator uses various cutting tools to shape the material into cylindrical or other shapes. Lathes can be operated manually or automatically, with modern lathes often computer-controlled (CNC). This tool has been essential in the manufacturing sector for producing precise parts.

Synonyms

metal lathe, turning machine, workshop lathe

Examples of usage

  • The carpenter used a lathe to turn the wooden bowl.
  • He learned how to machine parts on a lathe in the workshop.
  • Lathes are important for creating custom metal components.
  • She adjusted the speed of the lathe for finer finishes.

Translations

Translations of the word "lathe" in other languages:

🇵🇹 torno

🇮🇳 लेथ

🇩🇪 Drehbank

🇮🇩 mesin bubut

🇺🇦 токарний верстат

🇵🇱 tokarka

🇯🇵 旋盤 (せんばん)

🇫🇷 tour

🇪🇸 torno

🇹🇷 tornavida

🇰🇷 선반

🇸🇦 مخرطة

🇨🇿 soustruh

🇸🇰 sústruh

🇨🇳 车床 (chēchuáng)

🇸🇮 stružnica

🇮🇸 snúningsvél

🇰🇿 токарлық станок

🇬🇪 წრიული მანქანა

🇦🇿 dönmə maşını

🇲🇽 torno

Word origin

The word 'lathe' comes from the Old English word 'læð,' which means 'a place for laying down.' Its etymology traces back to the Proto-Germanic word '*lathwō,' meaning 'to lay down, place.' Historically, lathes can be traced back to ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire, where they were used in woodworking and metalworking. The evolution of lathe technology continued throughout the Middle Ages, with significant advancements occurring during the Industrial Revolution when lathes became more mechanized, leading to greater precision and efficiency in manufacturing processes. The lathe's fundamental design has remained largely unchanged for centuries, making it one of the oldest machine tools still in use today.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,633, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.