fastener: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to technical
Quick answer
What does “fastener” mean?
A device or object used to attach, join, or close something securely.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device or object used to attach, join, or close something securely.
Any mechanism or component that holds items together; in clothing, a clasp, button, zip, or hook; in manufacturing, hardware like screws, bolts, rivets, or clips.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term itself is identical in usage. However, specific types of fasteners may have different common names (e.g., 'zip' is more common than 'zipper' in UK for clothing).
Connotations
Neutral and functional in both varieties.
Frequency
Slightly more common in technical/industrial contexts in US English; equally common in general clothing/domestic contexts in both.
Grammar
How to Use “fastener” in a Sentence
fastener for + noun (a fastener for the jacket)fastener on + noun (the fastener on the bag)fastener made of + material (fastener made of nylon)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “fastener” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She had to fasten the gate with a new latch.
American English
- Please fasten your seatbelts before we take off.
adverb
British English
- (No adverb form derived from 'fastener').
American English
- (No adverb form derived from 'fastener').
adjective
British English
- (Not an adjective form; use 'fastening' as in 'fastening mechanism').
American English
- (Not an adjective form; use 'fastening' as in 'fastening device').
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to the hardware/component industry sector (e.g., 'The fastener market is growing').
Academic
Used in engineering, materials science, and design texts discussing joining mechanisms.
Everyday
Commonly refers to zips, buttons, and hooks on clothing, bags, or household items.
Technical
Precise term for screws, bolts, rivets, and other engineered joining devices in manufacturing/construction.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “fastener”
- Mispronouncing as /ˈfeɪstənə/ (confusing with 'fast').
- Using uncountably ('a lot of fastener' instead of 'a lot of fasteners').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Very similar, but 'fastener' typically refers to the physical object/device (e.g., a button), while 'fastening' can refer to the object or the action/process of attaching.
No, the verb form is 'to fasten'. 'Fastener' is only a noun.
In everyday life, the zip (zipper) and the button are among the most common. In industry, the screw and bolt are ubiquitous.
Yes, Velcro (a hook-and-loop system) is a specific brand and type of fastener used for joining two surfaces.
A device or object used to attach, join, or close something securely.
Fastener is usually neutral to technical in register.
Fastener: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfɑːs(ə)nə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfæs(ə)nər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(No common idioms with 'fastener' as a key component)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: A FASTener makes things hold FAST.
Conceptual Metaphor
SECURITY IS BEING FASTENED; CONNECTION IS A FASTENER.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is NOT typically considered a fastener?