Definition

Noun 1. A cylindrical metal lining used to reduce friction: A sleeve, typically made of metal, rubber, or plastic, inserted into a hole or housing to provide a bearing surface, reduce wear, or minimize friction between moving parts. 2. An insulating liner in an opening through which conductors pass: A non-conductive sleeve or grommet used to protect and insulate electrical wires or cables as they pass through a hole in a panel, chassis, or wall.

Examples

• Mechanical Context (Reducing Friction):
  • The mechanic replaced the worn bushing in the car's suspension arm.
  • This type of pivot joint uses a nylon bushing instead of a ball bearing.
• Electrical Context (Insulating Liner):
  • Always use a rubber bushing where the power cord enters the junction box.
  • The electrician installed insulating bushings on all the conduit entries.

Advanced Usage

• "To bush" (verb, rare/technical): The act of fitting or providing with a bushing.
  • The machinist will bush the bore to restore its original diameter.

Variants and Related Words

• Bushed (adjective): Describes a component that has been fitted with a bushing.
  • The bushed bearing assembly lasted much longer.
• Sleeve Bearing: A near-synonym in mechanical contexts, often referring to a simple cylindrical bearing that functions similarly to a bushing.
• Grommet: A related term in electrical/construction contexts, often a ring or edge protector that serves a similar insulating or protective function as a bushing.

Synonyms

• Liner
• Sleeve
• Bearing (in specific mechanical contexts)
• Insulator (in specific electrical contexts)

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Bushing Kit: A set of bushings for replacement or installation.
• Bushing Driver: A specialized tool used to install or remove bushings.
• Isolation Bushing: An electrical bushing designed to provide both insulation and vibration isolation.

Noun

1. a cylindrical metal lining used to reduce friction
2. an insulating liner in an opening through which conductors pass