lathe

1 of 2

noun

: a machine in which work is rotated about a horizontal axis and shaped by a fixed tool

lathe

2 of 2

verb

lathed; lathing

transitive verb

: to cut or shape with a lathe

Examples of lathe in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
Highlighting a dial hand-engraved on a rose engine lathe, Breguet’s 39mm white gold Classique 7237 features a self-winding movement with perpetual calendar; $80,200, at Breguet, Beverly Hills This story first appeared in the Feb. 21 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Laurie Brookins, The Hollywood Reporter, 25 Feb. 2024 The project would involve the demolition of most of the existing buildings, some of which date back to 1898 when Richard Knight LeBlond opened a factory there to make metal cutting lathes used for precision machining, according to historic records on file with the Library of Congress. Randy Tucker, The Enquirer, 10 Jan. 2024 During each polishing phase, heat is generated by the polishing lathes, creating an opportunity for error with each layer to potentially warp and compromise the flatness of the dial. Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 12 Oct. 2023 The bats were coming down the old lathe walls and entering through the gaps in the baseboards. Marlene Lenthang, NBC News, 31 Oct. 2023 Truckloads of new work stations, lathes, and furnaces are set for installation. Time, 24 July 2023 In this class, students focus on learning machines, like the lathe, grinder, table saw and other machinery. Deena Lawley-Dixon, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2023 The recipient of this pronouncement is Elli Vuokko, a fiery 19-year-old delegate representing Finnish lathe operators whom Rosa befriends during morning self-defense lessons and soaking sessions at the public baths. Alida Becker, New York Times, 30 Mar. 2023 Within seven years, Mr. Hasenfratz had set up his own company, starting with a single lathe to form metal parts in his basement. James R. Hagerty, WSJ, 25 Jan. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'lathe.' 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

Noun

probably from Middle English lath supporting stand

First Known Use

Noun

1611, in the meaning defined above

Verb

circa 1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lathe was in 1611

Dictionary Entries Near lathe

Cite this Entry

“Lathe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lathe. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

lathe

noun
ˈlāt͟h
: a machine in which a piece of material is held and turned while being shaped by a tool

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