Wingnut: meaning, definitions and examples
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wingnut
[ ˈwɪŋnʌt ]
mechanical term
A wingnut is a type of fastener that can be easily tightened and loosened by hand. It features two wings or lobes that allow a user to grasp it physically. Wingnuts are often used in applications where frequent adjustments are necessary or where tools may not be available. Commonly made from metal or plastic, they provide a convenient method for securing objects together without the need for additional tools.
Synonyms
hand nut, wing screw.
Examples of usage
- He tightened the wingnut to secure the panel.
- The wingnut design allows for easy adjustments.
- She quickly removed the wingnut by hand.
- Wingnuts are often used in DIY projects.
informal slang
In informal usage, 'wingnut' is a pejorative term used to describe someone whose beliefs or opinions are considered eccentric or extreme, particularly in political contexts. It suggests irrationality or a lack of sound judgment. This slang term often reflects societal disdain for certain individuals or groups perceived as overly outlandish in their views.
Synonyms
extremist, fringe element.
Examples of usage
- He's such a wingnut with his conspiracy theories.
- The politician was called a wingnut by the media.
- Her wingnut ideas about the economy raised eyebrows.
- Many consider that group to be a collection of wingnuts.
Translations
Translations of the word "wingnut" in other languages:
🇵🇹 porca de asa
🇮🇳 पंखा नट
🇩🇪 Flügelmutter
🇮🇩 mur sayap
🇺🇦 гайка крила
🇵🇱 nakrętka skrzydłowa
🇯🇵 ウイングナット
🇫🇷 écrou à aile
🇪🇸 tuerca alada
🇹🇷 kanat somunu
🇰🇷 윙너트
🇸🇦 صمولة جناح
🇨🇿 křídlo matice
🇸🇰 krídlová matica
🇨🇳 翅膀螺母
🇸🇮 krilna matica
🇮🇸 vængsmutter
🇰🇿 қанат гайка
🇬🇪 ფრთიანი ხრახნი
🇦🇿 qanad qozalı
🇲🇽 tuerca alada
Etymology
The term 'wingnut' originated in the early 19th century, deriving from the words 'wing' and 'nut'. The 'wing' refers to the protruding parts of the fastener that resemble wings, which are intended to allow ease of grip during installation and removal. The actual use of wingnuts in mechanical applications likely increased during the Industrial Revolution, when there was a burgeoning need for technologies that allowed for speedy assembly and disassembly. In a metaphorical sense, the word began to take on additional meanings in contemporary culture, particularly in the mid-20th century, when it started being used as a slang term for individuals who held extreme or bizarre opinions. This duality in meaning showcases the evolution of language, reflecting both its practical usage in engineering and its more whimsical or derogatory usage in social commentary.