Turnbuckle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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turnbuckle
[ˈtɜrnˌbʌkəl ]
Definition
hardware usage
A turnbuckle is a device used for adjusting the tension or length of cables, ropes, or rods. It consists of a frame with two threaded eyes or hooks on either end, enabling the user to twist and tighten the connection. Turnbuckles are commonly used in construction, rigging, and various mechanical applications, providing stability and structural integrity. They allow for fine adjustments in tension, making them essential in scenarios where precise alignment or tension is crucial.
Synonyms
adjuster, tensioner, tightener.
Examples of usage
- The rigging team used a turnbuckle to secure the sail.
- He adjusted the turnbuckle to increase the tension on the cable.
- In the construction project, turnbuckles provided essential support to the structure.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Engineering
- Turnbuckles are essential in construction for adjusting tension in wire cables, ensuring stability in structures.
- They are commonly used in various applications, including bridges, suspension systems, and even stage rigging.
Sports
- In professional wrestling, the term 'turnbuckle' refers to the padded corner protectors of a wrestling ring.
- Wrestlers often use them as launching points for athletic moves during matches.
Pop Culture
- The term has made appearances in various films and shows related to wrestling, highlighting the dramatic aspects of the sport.
- Its unique name has inspired playful references in various comic books and video games within contexts involving mega-structures.
Art and Design
- Artists and designers sometimes use turnbuckles in modern sculptures, emphasizing tension and balance.
- They symbolize the interplay between stability and motion, adding a dynamic element to creative works.
Origin of 'turnbuckle'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from 'turn' meaning to rotate and 'buckle' which refers to a fastening device.
- It has been in use since the 19th century, indicating its long-standing role in construction and rigging.
The term 'turnbuckle' originated from the combination of two words: 'turn' and 'buckle.' 'Turn' refers to the action of twisting or rotating, which is necessary to adjust the tension of the device. 'Buckle' relates to the fastening aspect, indicating how the device secures two components together. The use of turnbuckles dates back to the late 19th century, primarily in the maritime and construction industries where they became popular for rigging and securing sails on ships. Over time, the design of turnbuckles evolved, but their function still revolves around incrementally adjusting tension. The integration of materials like steel and other robust alloys has made modern turnbuckles more durable and effective in carrying substantial loads, thereby expanding their applications to various industries, including aviation and automotive engineering.