rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryarborSupporting shaft
noun

arbor

A shaft or spindle that supports a rotating part or tool.

The machinist secures the grinding wheel on the metal arbor.

Etymology
arborLatintree

Latin arbor means a tree. In machinery, the name extends the image of a supporting trunk to a shaft that carries a rotating tool or component.

More examples

  • Check that the arbor fits the tool.
  • The worn arbor allowed the wheel to wobble.
  • The cabinet holds several interchangeable arbors.

Forms

arbor · arbors

Similar words

spindle
A rotating shaft, often broader in use than tool support.
axle
Supports rotating wheels but need not rotate with them.