Definition

1. Noun:

   • A type of soft metal alloy: "babbitt" refers specifically to a bearing metal, an alloy traditionally composed primarily of tin, with smaller amounts of copper and antimony. It is used as a lining in bearings to reduce friction.

2. Verb (transitive):

   • To fit or line with Babbitt metal: "to babbitt" means to equip a bearing surface by lining it with this soft, anti-friction alloy.

Examples of Usage

• Noun: The mechanic replaced the worn babbitt in the engine's connecting rod bearings. Traditional babbitt is valued for its ability to embed small particles of grit, preventing damage to the shaft.

• Verb: The old bearing needs to be cleaned and babbitted before it can be used again. He learned how to babbitt a bearing in his grandfather's machine shop.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often capitalized as Babbitt metal, named after its inventor, Isaac Babbitt. This usage acknowledges its origin as a proprietary alloy.

Variants and Related Words

• Babbitted (adj): Describes a bearing that has been lined with Babbitt metal.
• Babbitting (n): The process or technique of applying Babbitt metal to a bearing surface.

Synonyms

• Bearing metal (n): A general term for alloys used in plain bearings.
• White metal (n): A broader category of alloys with a silvery appearance, which can include types of babbitt.

Notes on Meaning

• The primary and most common use is as a noun for the specific alloy.
• The verb form is a technical term derived directly from the noun and is used almost exclusively in mechanical and machining contexts.

Noun

1. an alloy of tin with some copper and antimony; a lining for bearings that reduces friction

Verb

1. line with a Babbitt metal