bolt
bolt Lexical Profile
bolt Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A type of fastener consisting of a threaded metal pin or rod with a head, designed to be inserted through holes in assembled parts and secured by a mated nut.
"The mechanic tightened the heavy steel bolt on the engine block to ensure there were no oil leaks."
A jagged flash of lightning.
"A sudden bolt of lightning illuminated the dark sky during the fierce summer thunderstorm."
A sudden, swift dash, run, flight, or escape.
"The frightened horse made a sudden bolt for the open gate before anyone could grab its reins."
• verb
To fasten or lock a door, window, or physical structure securely with a sliding bar or mechanical fastener.
"Before going to bed, she always made sure to bolt the heavy wooden front door."
To run away suddenly and rapidly, often out of fear or a loss of control.
"The loud crack of nearby fireworks caused the terrified dog to bolt into the dense woods."
To eat food very quickly and without chewing it properly.
"He was so late for his morning meeting that he had to bolt his breakfast and run out the door."
• Rhymes for bolt
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'bolt' (a short, stout arrow with a heavy head), of Germanic origin. The sense of sudden movement derives from the rapid flight of a crossbow arrow, while the fastener and locking senses evolved from the object's cylindrical shape.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.