lock nut: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Industrial
Quick answer
What does “lock nut” mean?
A type of nut designed to resist loosening under vibration or torque.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of nut designed to resist loosening under vibration or torque.
A nut with an integral locking feature, such as a nylon insert, a deformed thread, or a second locking nut, used to secure a bolt more reliably than a standard nut.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference; both use 'lock nut'. Spelling and grammar conventions (e.g., 'tighten the lock nut' vs. 'tighten the locknut') may vary by technical manual style.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally used in mechanical engineering and DIY contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “lock nut” in a Sentence
Use a lock nut [on the bolt]The assembly requires a lock nutSecure it with [a lock nut]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lock nut” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in procurement, parts lists, and manufacturing specifications.
Academic
Found in engineering textbooks and papers on mechanical design.
Everyday
Used in DIY, automotive repair, and bicycle maintenance contexts.
Technical
Core term in mechanical engineering, assembly instructions, and maintenance manuals.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “lock nut”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “lock nut”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lock nut”
- Using 'locknut' as a verb (e.g., 'Locknut the bolt').
- Confusing with a 'lock washer' (a different component).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is commonly written as two words ('lock nut'), but the hyphenated form ('lock-nut') and the single word ('locknut') are also seen in technical literature.
While possible, it is often unnecessary and more expensive. Lock nuts are specified for applications subject to vibration, dynamic loads, or where safety is critical.
A lock nut is a specially designed nut with a locking feature. A lock washer is a separate spring or tooth-shaped washer placed under a standard nut to prevent loosening. They can be used together.
It typically requires more torque to break its locking feature initially. Use the correct size spanner or socket. Some types (like nylon insert nuts) can be reused a limited number of times.
A type of nut designed to resist loosening under vibration or torque.
Lock nut is usually technical/industrial in register.
Lock nut: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɒk ˌnʌt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɑːk ˌnʌt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a NUT that LOCKS itself in place, like a padlock on a nut.
Conceptual Metaphor
SECURITY IS FASTENING (a lock nut provides security against loosening).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of a lock nut?