hinges

hing-es · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Metal devices that allow doors, gates, or lids to swing open and closed.

  2. 2.

    Third person singular present of "hinge"; depends on.

  3. 3.

    Points or factors on which something depends.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    rusty hinges — hinges that need maintenance; metaphorically, something out of practice
  • •
    oil the hinges — to maintain or smooth over a situation

Related words

See also: door, hinge, joint, pivot
Synonyms: joints, pivots

Etymology

Plural of "hinge," from Middle English henge, related to "hang." The device allows something to hang and swing.