detent

[dih-tent]

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.

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

Historical Examples of detent

The angle of the detent planes reduces the friction to almost nil.
Time and Time-Tellers
James W. Benson
This want undoubtedly led to the invention of the detent escapement.
Watch and Clock Escapements
Anonymous
This is connected with a clockwork and detent arrangement, which simultaneously opens a valve and actuates the lamp flame.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 14, Slice 3
Various
When the required number of hours have struck, the notch approaches the detent, the gravity of which allows it to fall therein.
Time and Time-Tellers
James W. Benson
The number of strokes depends on the distance which the count-wheel has to revolve before being stopped by the detent F.
Time and Time-Tellers
James W. Benson

British Dictionary definitions for detent

detent

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