fuse
UK[fjuːz]US[fjuːz]
n
A safety device containing a piece of wire that melts and breaks an electric circuit if the current exceeds a safe level.
n
A length of material along which a small flame moves to explode a bomb or firework.
v
To join or become joined by melting together, typically under heat.
v
To cause different things to combine or blend to form a whole.
Etymology
The word 'fuse' originates from the Latin 'fundere', meaning 'to pour' or 'to melt'. This root, via the Italian 'fuso' (spindle, from melted metal) and the French 'fuser' (to melt), entered English in the late 16th century, initially referring to the act of melting metals together. The logical connection is clear: the core concept of melting (pouring molten metal) directly gave rise to the modern meanings. The sense of a safety device (a wire that 'melts') and an igniting cord (for 'melting' or lighting explosives) evolved from this literal act of liquefaction, while the abstract sense of blending things together retains the metaphorical idea of elements merging as if melted into one.
Analysis
The modern English word 'fuse' is a simplex form derived from the Latin verb 'fundere' (to pour, melt, cast). Its spelling and form were adapted through Italian and French.
Examples
The electrical surge caused the fuse in the plug to blow.
He lit the fuse and ran for cover before the fireworks display began.
The intense heat served to fuse the fragments of glass into a single, smooth piece.