bolt
UK[bəʊlt]US[boʊlt]
n
a long, thin piece of metal with a flat or rounded head, used with a nut for fastening things together
n
a flash of lightning that appears as a white line in the sky
v
to run away suddenly, especially because of fear
v
to fasten something with a bolt
Etymology
the word 'bolt' originates from old english 'bolt', which referred to a missile, such as an arrow or a dart, particularly one shot from a crossbow. this term is of germanic origin, likely related to old high german 'bolz' and middle dutch 'bout', both with similar meanings. the semantic evolution is a classic example of metaphorical extension: the swift, straight flight of an arrow led to its application for a flash of lightning, while the act of a projectile being shot forth gave rise to the verb meaning 'to dash or run away suddenly'. the sense of a metal fastening rod developed later, likely influenced by the shape and function of a crossbow bolt, which is also a straight, pin-like object designed to be secured and released.
Analysis
this word is a simplex form. it is derived from old english 'bolt', meaning a short, heavy arrow or a crossbow projectile. its functional role is as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
he secured the shelf to the wall using a metal bolt and nut.
a sudden bolt of lightning illuminated the entire valley.
the frightened horse bolted as soon as it heard the loud noise.