live center

[ lahyv sen-ter ]

noun

, Machinery.

1. a tapered rod, mounted in the headstock spindle of a lathe, upon which the work to be turned is placed. Compare dead center ( def 3b ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of live center¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Never drive the wood onto the live center while in the spindle because serious injury may be done the machine by such practice.

From Project Gutenberg

Then replace the live center by taking the stock and center and forcing it into the spindle by a sudden push of the hand.

From Project Gutenberg

Take the live center from the spindle and with a wooden mallet drive the spur deep into the wood.

From Project Gutenberg