Pintle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pintle
[ˈpɪntl ]
Definition
nautical equipment
A pintle is a pivot or a pin that serves as a hinge for a rudder or similar equipment on a ship. It is typically used in conjunction with a gudgeon, which is a fitting that holds the pintle, allowing for the articulation of the rudder. The design enables the rudder to move freely while also providing stability when at rest. Pintles are crucial components in shipbuilding and maintenance, as they facilitate steering capabilities.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The captain checked the pintles before setting sail.
- The rudder's pintles were damaged during the storm.
- He lubricated the pintles to ensure smooth movement.
- They replaced the pintle to fix the steering issue.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Engineering
- Pintles are crucial in the design of hinges where they allow doors to swing open and closed smoothly.
- In maritime engineering, pintles are used with gudgeons to connect a rudder to a boat, allowing for easier steering.
Cultural Usage
- In some traditional crafts, like pottery and woodworking, pintles serve as key functional components that help with assembly and mobility of parts.
- Literature and art often depict mechanics, where pintles are important for understanding the movement of objects.
Military Applications
- In military terminology, pintles are also mentioned when discussing artillery systems, where they allow parts to pivot during operation.
- They contribute to the quick repositioning of weapon systems on vehicles, highlighting their role in tech advancements.
Modern Technologies
- Advances in technology have led to the development of pintles that are now made of durable materials like stainless steel, ensuring longevity and reliability.
- In robotics, pintles are integral for creating joints that replicate natural movement, showcasing their versatility.
Origin of 'pintle'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'pintle' is derived from Middle English, which came from the Old French word 'pinte', meaning a pin.
- Historically, this word has roots tracing back to the Latin word 'pinna', referring to a fin or feather, emphasizing its connection to pivoting motions.
The word 'pintle' originates from the Middle English term 'pintel', which itself comes from the Old French 'pintel' (a diminutive of 'pint', derived from Medieval Latin 'pinctulum'). The history of the word can be traced back to its usage in maritime contexts where ship parts required sturdy, reliable components for effective functioning. Its significance rose in the 15th century alongside advancements in shipbuilding techniques. As nautical technology evolved, the term 'pintle' became standardized in maritime vocabulary, solidifying its role as an integral part of rudder assembly. Over time, the pintle not only remained crucial in marine engineering but also found its place in other mechanical applications that required a pivoting mechanism.