cotter

¹ American  

[kot-er] / ˈkɒt ər /

noun

1. a pin, wedge, key, or the like, fitted or driven into an opening to secure something or hold parts together.

2. cotter pin.

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verb (used with object)

1. to secure with a cotter.

cotter ² American  

[kot-er] / ˈkɒt ər /

noun

1. Scot. a person occupying a plot of land and cottage, paid for in services.

2. cottager.

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cotter ¹ British  

/ ˈkɒtə /

noun

1. any part, such as a pin, wedge, key, etc, that is used to secure two other parts so that relative motion between them is prevented

2. short for cotter pin

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verb

1. (tr) to secure (two parts) with a cotter

cotter ² British  

/ ˈkɒtə /

noun

1. Also called: cottier.  English history a villein in late Anglo-Saxon and early Norman times occupying a cottage and land in return for labour

2. Also called: cottar.  a peasant occupying a cottage and land in the Scottish Highlands under the same tenure as an Irish cottier

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Etymology

Origin of cotter¹

1300–50; Middle English coter; akin to late Middle English coterell iron bracket; of uncertain origin

Origin of cotter²

1175–1225; Middle English cotere < Anglo-French cot ( i ) er; see cot ², -er ²

Example Sentences

"The Brumbies are well-organised and have started their season well. They will be tough competitors, particularly at home, but we are up for the challenge," said coach Vern Cotter.

From Barron's • Feb. 26, 2026

Mark Cotter, mitigating, said a lack of help for Button created a "terrifying crisis for her".

From BBC • Oct. 17, 2025

Junior opposite hitter Sophia Cotter is committed to Princeton.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 21, 2025

In a victim impact statement, former director Mark Cotter said that the stress on him had led to his GP making him take four to six weeks off work.

From BBC • Jul. 25, 2025

During radio calls from Hall at 5:36, and again at 5:57, Cotter implored his mate to leave Hansen and come down alone.

From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer

Related Words

• chunk