Definition

A device that holds or locks a part of a machine in place, allowing it to be released when needed.

Example

The engineer adjusted the detent to ensure the lever stayed in position during operation.

Conversation

Hey, do you know what a detent is?

Yeah, it's that thing that locks parts of a mechanism, right?

Exactly! I saw one in a video about how machines work.

That's cool! Those little parts are often more important than they seem.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Detent is derived from the Latin 'detentus', which is the past participle of 'detinere', formed from 'de-' (meaning down or away) and 'tenere' (meaning to hold). The word refers to something that holds or restrains, particularly in a mechanical context.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'holds down' ('de-' means down and 'tenere' means to hold') — that's why a detent is a device that holds or restrains movement.

Visually Confused Words