seat belt

American  

Or seatbelt

noun

1. a belt or strap in an automobile, airplane, etc., fastened around or sometimes diagonally across the midsection to keep the person safely secured, as during a sudden stop.

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seat belt British  

noun

1. Also called: safety belt.  a belt or strap worn in a vehicle to restrain forward motion in the event of a collision

2. a similar belt or strap worn in an aircraft at takeoff and landing and in rough weather

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Etymology

Origin of seat belt

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Its rear seat only had two seat belts but was big enough for three people to squeeze in.

From The Wall Street Journal

Over time, more drivers started wearing seat belts—over 90% are estimated to now do so—and automakers also added more air bags to protect passengers in scenarios beyond frontal collisions.

From The Wall Street Journal

The company will also inspect the affected vehicles and replace the driver’s seat belt if necessary.

From Los Angeles Times

You are in the passenger seat with no seat belt, and the dashboard lights are blinking like they’re trying to tell you something in Morse code, which you never learned.

From MarketWatch

In exchange for the beauty of living life in Topanga, some folks will learn to accept the risk and do what they can to mitigate it: Harden a home, fasten a seat belt.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• safety belt