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Glite Dictionary
snap ring

snap ring

6.0
A metal loop with a spring clip for quickly attaching rope or gear
  • noun
  • /snæp rɪŋ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : anillo de seguridad
  • The one-piece cartridge, designed for simple replacement, contains the mechanical seal faces, springs, O-rings, and snap rings in a factory-sealed unit.

Examples

  • The technician used a snap ring to secure the cable to the machinery.

  • This is the snap ring on the bus, in the bottom of the screen...

    The History of Love (2016)

  • Before you install the new part, make sure the snap ring is properly fitted.

  • The mountaineer attached the rope to his harness with a sturdy snap ring.

Synonyms

carabiner
vssnap ring
  • Specialized
5 7.6

A strong metal loop with a spring gate that connects ropes or gear while climbing

is a similar quick connector used both in climbing and in mechanical assemblies

How Secure

carabiner
  • Specialized
5 7.6
snap ring
  • Specialized
6.0
key ring
6 1.0

Surface Forms

snap ring singular
snap rings plural

Morphology

snap + ring

The compound is directly compositional: 'snap' conveys a sudden/quick fastening action and 'ring' names a circular loop, so together they denote a ring that snaps closed to attach things. This follows normal modifier+noun patterns and a B1 learner who knows both words can infer the basic function (a quickly attaching/locking ring), even if they might not know the precise mechanical details.

Etymology

Snap ring comes from how it works: a round metal ring with a small spring clip that snaps shut, letting you quickly 'attach' ropes or tools. That's why the name means a small metal clip used to 'fasten' or connect things.