lathe
UK[leɪð]US[leɪð]
n
A machine for shaping wood, metal, or other material by means of a rotating drive which turns the piece being worked on against changeable cutting tools.
Etymology
The word 'lathe' likely originates from the Middle English term 'lath', which referred to a supporting stand or frame. This, in turn, is believed to derive from a Scandinavian source, such as the Old Danish 'lad', meaning a stand or support. The semantic evolution is clear: from a general concept of a supporting structure to the specific machine tool that supports and rotates the workpiece. The modern spelling with a final 'e' became standardized in the 17th century, solidifying its current form and meaning related to the turning machine.
Analysis
The word 'lathe' is a simplex word of English origin. It does not contain separable morphemes in its modern spelling.
Examples
The artisan shaped the wooden leg on a lathe.
Modern metal lathes are controlled by computer programs.
He learned to use a lathe in his high school workshop class.