lock washer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
lowtechnical
Quick answer
What does “lock washer” mean?
A type of washer (a flat ring) designed to prevent a nut or bolt from loosening under vibration, typically by using a special shape or teeth.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of washer (a flat ring) designed to prevent a nut or bolt from loosening under vibration, typically by using a special shape or teeth.
A mechanical fastening component used to secure threaded fasteners. In broader contexts, it can metaphorically refer to any mechanism or measure that ensures stability or prevents unintended movement or release in a system.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or conceptual differences. The component is identical and the term is used identically in both mechanical/engineering contexts.
Connotations
Purely technical/functional with no cultural or regional connotations.
Frequency
Frequency is equally low in both varieties, confined to technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “lock washer” in a Sentence
[verb] + lock washer (e.g., install, use, fit, replace)lock washer + [verb] (e.g., prevents loosening, bites into the surface)[adjective] + lock washer (e.g., split-ring, serrated, spring)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lock washer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Always lock-washer that bolt before you tighten it fully.
- The mechanic lock-washered the critical connections on the gearbox.
American English
- You need to lock washer that flange bolt.
- The instructions say to lock washer all the mounting hardware.
adjective
British English
- The lock-washer solution is more reliable for high-vibration areas.
- We're out of lock-washer stock.
American English
- We need a lock washer solution for the engine mounts.
- Check the lock washer inventory.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in procurement, supply chain, or industrial sales contexts (e.g., 'The order includes 500 M10 lock washers').
Academic
Used in engineering, mechanical design, and materials science textbooks and papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation outside of DIY or mechanical hobbies.
Technical
Core usage context. Standard term in mechanical engineering, automotive repair, aerospace, and industrial maintenance manuals.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “lock washer”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “lock washer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lock washer”
- Misspelling as 'lockwasher' (should be two words or hyphenated: 'lock-washer').
- Confusing it with a 'locknut', which is a different type of fastener.
- Using it as a general term for any washer.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is most commonly written as two words ('lock washer'). In technical manuals, it is sometimes hyphenated ('lock-washer'), especially when used as a modifier (e.g., lock-washer set).
A regular (flat) washer mainly distributes load and prevents surface damage. A lock washer is specifically designed with features (like teeth, splits, or springs) to resist loosening caused by vibration or rotation.
Yes, this is common practice. The flat washer goes against the surface to distribute load, and the lock washer goes between the flat washer and the nut (or bolt head) to provide the locking action.
No. There are several types, including split-ring (spring) lock washers, tooth (serrated) lock washers (internal or external), and wedge lock washers. Each type works on a slightly different mechanical principle.
A type of washer (a flat ring) designed to prevent a nut or bolt from loosening under vibration, typically by using a special shape or teeth.
Lock washer is usually technical in register.
Lock washer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɒk ˌwɒʃ.ər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɑːk ˌwɑː.ʃɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: A washer that 'locks' a nut in place, like a lock on a door keeps it shut. Visualise a small, toothed ring gripping a bolt.
Conceptual Metaphor
SECURITY/STABILITY IS PHYSICAL LOCKING (e.g., 'lock in the gains', 'lock down the process'). The component metaphorically 'locks' the fastener.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a lock washer?