O-ring

noun

ˈō-ˌriŋ 

: a ring (as of synthetic rubber) used as a gasket

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Rubber O-rings that separated sections of the shuttle’s solid-rocket boosters contracted in cold weather and malfunctioned, causing a nightmarish explosion moments after launch. —Matthew Beddingfield, Scientific American, 28 Apr. 2023

The strapless top features a cut-out O-ring center that ties in the front for added detail with a solid band that wraps around the back, and the high-waisted bottoms boast a cheeky cut with adjustable tie strings on the side. —Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 27 Apr. 2023

Boeing advised airlines in November about the issue, which has been traced to an O-ring seal and described as a slow leak — about 8 ounces of water per hour. —CBS News, 7 Apr. 2023

Because its dust control is so good (owing to a rubber O-ring seal on the dust port, good airflow, and an airtight dust canister), less dust stays on the surface to get ground into the abrasive pad. —Roy Berendsohn, Popular Mechanics, 27 Mar. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above