Meaning & Definition of word "Buckle"
to
Buckle
/ˈbʌk.əl/
noun:
- 1. A fastening for two loose ends of a strap or belt, typically made of metal and used to secure two ends together.
- Example: He fastened his belt with a shiny silver buckle.
- 2. A bend or deformation in a structure, often due to pressure.
- Example: The intense heat caused the metal to develop a buckle.
verb:
- 1. To fasten or secure something with a buckle.
- Example: She buckled her seatbelt before starting the car.
- 2. To bend or collapse under pressure or strain.
- Example: The old wooden chair began to buckle under his weight.
- 3. To give way or collapse under stress.
- Example: After hours of standing, his knees began to buckle.
Etymology
Middle English 'bokel', possibly from Old French 'bocle', meaning 'a fastening'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
buckle down:
To get serious about one's work; to start working hard.
buckle under:
To yield or give in to pressure.
buckle up:
To fasten one's seatbelt.
Related Words
buckle up:
To fasten your seatbelt in a vehicle.
buckle one's knees:
To lose strength in one's legs, often due to fear or exhaustion.
Slang Meanings of buckle
Meaning: To get serious about something.
Example Sentence: It's time to buckle and focus on your studies.
Meaning: To break or collapse under pressure.
Example Sentence: If you keep pushing him like that, he's going to buckle.