toggle joint

noun Machinery.

any of various devices consisting basically of a rod that can be inserted into an object and then manipulated so that the inserted part spreads, becomes offset, or turns at a right angle to the exterior part, allowing it to be used as a support, handle, linkage, lever, etc.

Origin of toggle joint

First recorded in 1840–50

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for toggle joint

Historical Examples of toggle joint

By stepping upon this toggle-joint at its apex, the floor-board will be forced into place.
Woodworking for Beginners
Charles Gardner Wheeler
You can easily apply all the pressure required by using two short boards on the principle of the toggle-joint.
Woodworking for Beginners
Charles Gardner Wheeler

British Dictionary definitions for toggle joint

toggle joint

noun

a device consisting of two arms pivoted at a common joint and at their outer ends and used to apply pressure by straightening the angle between the two arms

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