spindle

Definition

A slender rod or pin used for spinning fibers into thread, or more broadly, any thin pointed shaft or axis around which something rotates or winds. In machinery, it refers to the rotating shaft that holds and turns tools or workpieces.

Example Usage

The spindle on her spinning wheel rotated smoothly as she drew out the wool.

Origin

From Old English 'spinl,' related to 'spin,' with origins tracing back to Proto-Germanic.

Fun Fact

In machining, spindle speed is measured in RPM (revolutions per minute) and is critical for precision work like drilling or milling.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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