Translate text 
Translate files Buckle
/ˈbʌk.əl/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A fastening for two loose ends of a strap or belt, typically made of metal and used to secure two ends together.
He fastened his belt with a shiny silver buckle.
A bend or deformation in a structure, often due to pressure.
The intense heat caused the metal to develop a buckle.
verb
To fasten or secure something with a buckle.
She buckled her seatbelt before starting the car.
To bend or collapse under pressure or strain.
The old wooden chair began to buckle under his weight.
To give way or collapse under stress.
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
Slang Meanings
To get serious about something.
It's time to buckle and focus on your studies.
To break or collapse under pressure.
If you keep pushing him like that, he's going to buckle.