Meaning & Definition of word "Bolt"

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    Bolt

    /boʊlt/

    noun:

    • 1. A metal pin or bar, typically with a head, used for fastening things together.
      • Example: He used a bolt to secure the two pieces of wood.
    • 2. A flash of lightning.
      • Example: There was a loud crack of thunder, followed by a bright bolt of lightning.
    • 3. A sudden movement or escape.
      • Example: The dog made a bolt for the open door.

    verb:

    • 1. To run away suddenly or quickly.
      • Example: When the train approached, the children bolted down the platform.
    • 2. To fasten with a bolt.
      • Example: Make sure to bolt the lid onto the container securely.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'bolte', from Old English 'boltian' meaning to throw or to shoot.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    bolt from the blue:

    A sudden and unexpected event.

    bolt down:

    To eat something quickly.

    bolt and run:

    To leave hastily; to flee.

    Related Words

    fasten:

    To attach firmly.

    escape:

    To break free from confinement.

    dash:

    To run or travel somewhere in a great hurry.

    Slang Meanings of bolt

    Meaning: To leave quickly.

    Example Sentence: I gotta bolt out of here before my boss sees me.

    Meaning: To consume something rapidly.

    Example Sentence: He bolted his dinner before heading out.