locking plate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1-C2Technical
Quick answer
What does “locking plate” mean?
A metal plate, typically part of a mechanical fastening system, that secures components together by interlocking with another part or by accepting a locking mechanism such as a pin, screw, or latch.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A metal plate, typically part of a mechanical fastening system, that secures components together by interlocking with another part or by accepting a locking mechanism such as a pin, screw, or latch.
In medical contexts, specifically orthopaedic surgery, a specialized metal plate with screw holes designed to 'lock' screws in a fixed angle relative to the plate, creating a rigid internal fixation device for bone fractures. In broader engineering, any plate designed to hold parts in a fixed position or alignment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Usage is identical across technical fields. Spelling follows regional norms (e.g., 'orthopaedic' in UK, 'orthopedic' in US).
Connotations
Identical; strictly technical/functional.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general language but standard and frequent within orthopaedic surgery, engineering, and related trades in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “locking plate” in a Sentence
[VERB] + locking plate (e.g., implant, apply, secure, design, remove)[ADJECTIVE] + locking plate (e.g., titanium, proximal, anatomical, contoured)locking plate + [PREP] + [NOUN] (e.g., locking plate for fractures, locking plate in orthopaedics)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “locking plate” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The surgeon will be locking the plate to the bone with several bicortical screws.
- This mechanism works by locking the plate into the housing.
American English
- The surgeon will lock the plate to the bone with several bicortical screws.
- This mechanism functions by locking the plate into the housing.
adverb
British English
- The screw fastened itself locking-plate tight.
- Not applicable in standard usage.
American English
- The screw fastened itself locking-plate tight.
- Not applicable in standard usage.
adjective
British English
- The locking-plate construct provided excellent stability.
- We need a locking-plate solution for this comminuted fracture.
American English
- The locking plate construct provided excellent stability.
- We need a locking plate solution for this comminuted fracture.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; might occur in procurement for medical devices or construction materials.
Academic
Common in medical, engineering, and materials science journals, particularly in orthopaedic and biomechanics research.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core term in orthopaedic surgery manuals, mechanical engineering textbooks, hardware catalogues, and construction guidelines.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “locking plate”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “locking plate”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “locking plate”
- Using 'lock plate' (incorrect omission of '-ing').
- Confusing with 'lock washer' (a different fastening component).
- Using in non-technical contexts where 'bracket', 'clamp', or simply 'plate' would suffice.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A traditional bone plate relies on friction between the plate and bone, achieved by tightening screws. A locking plate has threaded screw holes that lock the screw head to the plate at a fixed angle, creating a single, rigid unit.
Yes. In mechanical engineering and construction, a locking plate can be any plate designed to interlock with another component to prevent movement, such as in a gear assembly or a door locking mechanism.
It provides angular stability without compressing the bone underneath the plate. This is crucial for fragile bones (e.g., osteoporosis) or complex fractures, as it reduces the risk of loss of reduction and preserves blood supply to the bone.
It is a gerundive noun (functioning adjectivally) derived from the verb 'to lock.' It describes the plate's purpose: 'a plate for locking.'
A metal plate, typically part of a mechanical fastening system, that secures components together by interlocking with another part or by accepting a locking mechanism such as a pin, screw, or latch.
Locking plate is usually technical in register.
Locking plate: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɒk.ɪŋ pleɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɑː.kɪŋ pleɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'plate' that 'locks' bones or parts together like a rigid puzzle piece. Visualize a dinner plate with holes where screws click and lock into place, holding everything steady.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE BODY/SYSTEM IS A MACHINE; STABILITY IS RIGIDITY; The locking plate metaphorically acts as a 'internal scaffold' or 'brace'.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'locking plate' MOST specifically and frequently used?