linchpin
7.5
A pin pushed through the axle end to keep a wheel in place
- noun
- /ˈlɪnʧˌpɪn/
:
pasador
- We had to replace the broken linchpin to ensure the trailer was safe for towing.
Examples
-
Some of the linchpins were also made of dried leather.
Academic text (2004) -
To keep the wheel secure, you need to insert the linchpin at the end of the axle.
-
The mechanic explained that without the linchpin, the wheel would come off while driving.
Synonyms
1
9.9
A pin or bolt that a door turns on
is specific to pins holding wheels on axle ends rather than general pivots
1
8.4
A large central bolt that lets the wheel turn in a vehicle
is smaller in size and used to fasten wheels at axle ends instead
8.1
A pin pushed through the end of an axle to hold a wheel in place
has identical meaning but uses an alternative spelling
7.5
A metal part that turns to let a car's wheel move when you steer
is used to secure wheels on axle ends rather than for steering pivots
Surface Forms
Etymology
Linchpin comes from the old parts linch and pin, where linch meant 'axle' or 'end of a wheel' and pin meant 'a small metal stick'. It was the metal pin that kept a wheel on its axle, so the word names that part.