Meaning & Definition of word "Buckle"

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.