Definition of detent
: a device (such as a catch, dog, or spring-operated ball) for positioning and holding one mechanical part in relation to another in a manner such that the device can be released by force applied to one of the parts
From the M-W Editors
Origin and Etymology of detent
French détente, from Middle French destente, from destendre to slacken, from Old French, from des- de- + tendre to stretch, from Latin tendere — more at thin
Learn More about detent
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up detent? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!