clevis
UK[ˈklɛvɪs]US[ˈklɛvɪs]
n
A U-shaped metal piece with holes at the ends to allow a pin or bolt to pass through, used for attaching or fastening.
Etymology
The word 'clevis' entered English in the late 16th century, primarily used in agricultural and mechanical contexts. It is believed to be of Scandinavian origin, related to the Old Norse word 'klofi', meaning 'a forked stick' or 'cleft'. This origin directly informs its modern meaning, as the defining feature of a clevis is its forked, U-shaped design. The term's journey reflects the practical exchange of tool-making terminology, evolving from a general term for a split object to a precise name for a specific metal fastening component in engineering and machinery.
Analysis
The word is a simplex. It is a borrowing from a Germanic language (likely Old Norse or a related dialect) into English, where it functioned as a single, unanalyzable unit referring to a specific mechanical object.
Examples
The farmer secured the plow to the tractor using a sturdy clevis and a linchpin.
For the assembly, connect the rod end to the lever arm with a clevis pin.
The shackle, clevis, and turnbuckle are essential hardware for rigging and lifting.