collet

noun

col·​let ˈkä-lət How to pronounce collet (audio)
: a metal band, collar, ferrule, or flange: such as
a
: a casing or socket for holding a tool (such as a drill bit)
b
: a circle or flange in which a gem is set

Examples of collet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Palm routers are only suited for up to 1/4-inch shank bits, so if your project requires something larger, get a plunge router with a 1/2 inch collet. Alex Rennie, Popular Mechanics, 15 Feb. 2023 The work of tightening the collet, a fist-size ring, is now complete, said Cliff Lanham, senior vehicle operations manager for NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems Program. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 20 July 2022 The Floeting diamond stands alone, with no gems on either side of it to block light, and the diamond is specially cut to accommodate the metal collet. Carol Besler, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2021 The bracelets consist of 112 diamonds with a total weight of approximately 150-carats and are open back and set into silver collet settings with gold on the clasp—much of the design was indicative of the period with the exception of the open back. Beth Bernstein, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2021 Next, place an aluminum-oxide grinding stone into the rotary tool and tighten the collet nut. Joseph Truini, Popular Mechanics, 21 Jan. 2020 From the plastic collet of the needle came a bloody froth. oregonlive, 5 Oct. 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'collet.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, diminutive of col collar, from Latin collum neck — more at collar

First Known Use

1528, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of collet was in 1528

Dictionary Entries Near collet

Cite this Entry

“Collet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/collet. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

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