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lock nut

American  
Or locknut

noun

Machinery.
  1. a nut specially constructed to prevent its coming loose, usually having a means of providing extra friction between itself and the screw.

  2. Also called jam nut.  a thin supplementary nut screwed down upon a regular nut to prevent its loosening.


Etymology

Origin of lock nut

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The lock nut survived the last check, so back it goes on the bearing again. 

From New York Times • May 5, 2010

To lock the setting into place, retighten the 4mm Allen first, and then tighten the 12mm lock nut.

From Time Magazine Archive

Be sure to check the manufacturer's specified torque specs to torque down the axle nut and lock nut appropriately.

From Time Magazine Archive

With a 12mm wrench, break the 12mm lock nut loose by turning it counterclockwise.

From Time Magazine Archive

Screw-thread attachments should be used, and the crankshaft should project sufficiently to allow room for a flat lock nut.

From Things To Make by Williams, Archibald

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