detent

[ dih-tent ]

/ dɪˈtɛnt /

noun Machinery.

a mechanism that temporarily keeps one part in a certain position relative to that of another, and can be released by applying force to one of the parts.

Words nearby detent

detect, detection, detective, detector, detectorist, detent, detention, detention camp, detention centre, detention home, deter

Origin of detent

1680–90; < French détente, Old French destente, derivative of destendre to relax, equivalent to des- dis-¹ + tendre to stretch; see tender²

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for detent

Usually understood to mean a time-keeper fitted with a spring detent escapement.
Time Telling through the Ages|Harry Chase Brearley
When these crystals are warmed, the detent is lifted, and an outflow of light immediately begins.
Fragments of science, V. 1-2|John Tyndall
But the pressure of the escape-wheel against the detent, and the consequent friction, prevent the pendulum from acting freely.
Great Facts|Frederick C. Bakewell
By shaping the detent in this way nearly all the tendency of the spring E to cockle is annulled.
Watch and Clock Escapements|Anonymous

The soft iron tinned, which is attracted to the electro-magnet b, and liberates the detent.
The Boy's Playbook of Science|John Henry Pepper

British Dictionary definitions for detent

detent

/ (dɪˈtɛnt) /

noun

the locking piece of a mechanism, often spring-loaded to check the movement of a wheel in one direction onlySee also pawl

Word Origin for detent

C17: from Old French destente, a loosening, trigger: see détente

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012