Definition

Noun: A type of hinge designed to be mortised (set into a recess) flush with the surfaces of both the door and the door frame (jamb). When the door is closed, the two leaves of the hinge fold together, creating a neat, concealed appearance with only the pin visible.

Usage

A "butt hinge" is the most common hinge type used for hanging interior and exterior doors. It is installed by cutting recesses (mortises) into the edge of the door and the door jamb so that the hinge plates sit flush with the wood, allowing the door to swing smoothly without gaps.

Examples

• The carpenter installed butt hinges on all the new doors in the house.
• For a clean, traditional look, we used solid brass butt hinges.
• One of the butt hinges was squeaking, so I applied a little oil to the pin.

Advanced Usage

• Loose-pin butt hinge: A common subtype where the pin can be easily removed, allowing the door to be taken off without unscrewing the hinges.
• Rising butt hinge: A specialized butt hinge where the pin is slightly angled, causing the door to lift slightly as it opens, allowing it to clear thick carpet.

Variants and Related Words

• Hinge (n): The general term for a mechanical bearing that connects two solid objects, allowing a limited angle of rotation between them.
• Mortise (v/n): The act of cutting a recess to receive a hinge or lock; the recess itself. Butt hinges require mortising for proper installation.
• Piano Hinge (n): A long, continuous hinge, unlike the shorter, separate butt hinge. Also known as a continuous hinge.

Synonyms

• Door hinge
• Butt joint hinge

Related Phrases/Idioms

(This specific hardware term is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions.)

Noun

1. a hinge mortised flush into the edge of the door and jamb