coupling

/'kʌpliɳ/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
coupling

A train coupling connects two railway cars together.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • The act of joining or linking two things together: "coupling" can refer to the action of connecting two separate items, parts, or systems.
    • A device that connects two mechanical parts: In engineering, a "coupling" is a physical component used to join the ends of adjacent shafts or objects, allowing them to rotate together and transmit power.
    • The pairing of two entities, especially for a specific purpose: This can refer to the pairing of a male and female for reproduction, or more broadly, the linking of two ideas, systems, or concepts.
Examples of Usage
  • Noun (Act of Joining):

    • The coupling of these two ideas created a powerful new theory.
    • The project requires the coupling of software from different vendors.
  • Noun (Mechanical Device):

    • A flexible coupling was used to connect the motor shaft to the pump.
    • The mechanic replaced the worn-out coupling in the drive train.
  • Noun (Pairing for Reproduction):

    • The study observed the coupling behavior of the birds during mating season.
Advanced Usage
  • "Loose coupling" (in computing/systems design): A design principle where components have minimal knowledge of and dependence on each other.

    • The software architecture uses loose coupling to make the system more modular and easier to maintain.
  • "Coupling constant" (in physics): A number that determines the strength of a force between particles.

    • The fine-structure constant is a fundamental coupling constant in electromagnetism.
Variants and Related Words
  • Couple (verb/noun): To join or link two things; a pair of two similar or connected things.

    • They coupled the train cars together.
    • They are a happy couple.
  • Decoupling (noun): The act of separating or disconnecting things that were joined.

    • The decoupling of the economy from fossil fuels is a major challenge.
  • Coupler (noun): A device or person that couples things; often synonymous with a coupling device.

    • An audio coupler connects the phone to the recording device.
Synonyms
  • Connection: The act of connecting or the state of being connected.
  • Joining: The action of bringing two things together.
  • Linkage: A system of links or connections.
  • Union: The action or fact of joining or being joined, especially in a political context.
Related Phrases
  • Couple up: (Phrasal verb) To form a pair or to join together.

    • The dancers coupled up for the final waltz.
  • In coupling with: (Phrase) Used together with; combined with.

    • The new policy, in coupling with existing regulations, should improve safety.
Related Idioms
  • (To be) coupled with: Used to introduce an additional fact or factor that is also important.
    • His intelligence, coupled with his perseverance, led to his success.
coupling

A train coupling connects two railway cars together.

Noun
  1. the act of pairing a male and female for reproductive purposes
    • the casual couplings of adolescents
    • the mating of some species occurs only in the spring
  2. a mechanical device that serves to connect the ends of adjacent objects
  3. a connection (like a clamp or vise) between two things so they move together