noun / verb
spline
A fitting that joins parts by engaging matching grooves.
A spline joins the two panels by fitting into matching grooves.
Etymology
Spline names a narrow strip or projecting ridge. In machinery, matching ridges and grooves lock parts together while distributing force along their length.
More examples
- Worn splines allow the gear to slip on the shaft.
- Slide the wooden spline into the grooves before clamping the boards.
- The machinist splines the shaft to fit the gear's grooved opening.
Forms
spline · splines · splined · splining