Screws Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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screws
[skruːz ]
Definitions
construction
Metal fasteners with a spiral ridge that are used to join pieces of wood or metal together.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| screws |
Screws are used to hold objects together, often wood, by creating strong joints. They are ideal for tasks requiring durability and strength.
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| bolts |
Bolts are suitable for connecting heavy and metal pieces, often used with a corresponding nut. They are typically found in machinery, construction, and automotive applications.
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| nails |
Nails are used primarily for fastening wood and are driven into the material with a hammer. They are common in carpentry and basic construction work.
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| fasteners |
Fasteners encompass a broad category including screws, bolts, nails, and other items used to join materials together. It's a general term that can be used in various professional and DIY contexts.
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Examples of usage
- He tightened the screws to secure the shelf in place.
- Make sure to use the right size screws for the job.
mechanics
A type of simple machine that converts rotational motion into linear motion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| screws |
Typically used to fasten materials together, especially in woodworking, construction, and smaller assembly tasks.
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| bolt |
Often used to secure larger structures and objects, particularly in construction, automotive, and mechanical engineering. Bolts are generally larger and more robust than screws.
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| gear |
A rotating machine part having cut teeth, which mesh with another toothed part to transmit torque. Used in various machines, from bicycles to vehicles and industrial machinery.
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| cog |
Refers to a toothed wheel or bar that engages with another to transmit motion in machinery. Commonly used in contexts involving gears and mechanisms.
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Examples of usage
- The screw on the clamp allows for precise adjustment.
- You can use a screw to lift heavy objects.
manipulation
To twist or tighten something using a screwdriver or similar tool.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| screws |
Use when referring to the metal fasteners with a helical ridge that you insert into materials to hold them together.
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| fasten |
Use in a general sense when something needs to be closed or attached securely, such as seat belts, zippers, or buttons.
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| tighten |
Use when making something firmer or less loose, often involving screws, bolts, or caps.
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| secure |
Use when emphasizing making sure something is safe or firmly in place to prevent movement or loss.
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Examples of usage
- He carefully screwed the hinges into place.
- She screwed the lightbulb into the socket.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Screws have been used since ancient times, with evidence of their use in Greek and Roman mechanics, particularly in devices like the screw press.
- The modern screw design was developed in the 15th century, which greatly improved mechanical fastening and construction techniques.
Science
- The principles of screws are based on simple machines; they convert rotational motion into linear motion, making them very efficient fasteners.
- Screws are fundamental in engineering and construction, allowing for the assembly of structures by providing strong, dependable joints.
Pop Culture
- In various movies and TV shows, you can often see characters getting 'screwed up' in sticky situations, using wordplay to relate to the fasteners.
- Screws also appear in DIY home improvement shows, highlighting their importance in building and fixing projects around the house.
Psychology
- The phrase 'screwed up' is a common idiom in English that implies making mistakes or being confused, showcasing how language evolves around everyday items.
- Studies have shown that the act of tightening or loosening screws can have a therapeutic effect, as it requires focus and can relieve stress.
Origin of 'screws'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'screw' comes from the Latin word 'scroba,' which means 'a groove or a ditch,' reflecting the shape of a screw's thread.
- In early English, 'screw' was used to refer to a tool for turning, showing how the function of the device is reflected in its name.
The word 'screw' originated from Old French 'escroue', meaning nut or screw, which came from Latin 'scrofa', meaning sow. The term 'screw' was first used in the 15th century to refer to spiral devices used for pressing objects together. Over time, screws have become essential fasteners in various industries, offering a secure and reliable way to join materials.
See also: screw.