首页

nozzle

UK[ˈnɒz.əl]US[ˈnɑː.zəl]
n

a short tube fitted to the end of a hose, pipe, or pump to direct and control a stream of liquid or gas.

Etymology

The word 'nozzle' has a straightforward and vivid etymological story. It originated in late Middle English as 'nosel', which was a diminutive form of 'nose', essentially meaning 'a little nose'. This metaphorical naming is based on the visual and functional resemblance of a projecting spout to a nose. The modern spelling with 'zz' solidified in the 17th century. The logic of its evolution is clear: the projecting, often rounded, end of a hose or pipe was humorously or descriptively compared to a facial feature, and this concrete analogy gave the object its enduring name.

Analysis

The word 'nozzle' is a simplex word. It is derived from the Middle English word 'nosel', a diminutive form of 'nose'. Its functional role is as a complete lexical unit.

Examples

He adjusted the nozzle on the garden hose to create a fine spray.

The firefighter gripped the nozzle tightly as he aimed the powerful jet of water at the flames.

For a more concentrated stream, you can switch the spray bottle to the jet nozzle setting.

nozzle – Meaning, Etymology & Word Origin | OpenEtymology