Definition

1. Noun:
   • A machine tool for shaping metal or wood: A "lathe" is a machine in which a piece of material (the workpiece) is rotated at high speed against a fixed cutting tool, allowing it to be shaped symmetrically about an axis of rotation.

Usage

• The primary use of a lathe is to perform operations such as cutting, sanding, knurling, drilling, or deformation on a workpiece to create an object with symmetry about the axis of rotation.
• It is a fundamental tool in metalworking, woodturning, and glass-working.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The carpenter used a lathe to turn the wooden block into a beautiful table leg.
  • Precision metal parts are often manufactured on a computer-controlled lathe.

Advanced Usage

• "to operate/run a lathe": to use or work with a lathe machine.
  • He learned to operate a lathe during his engineering apprenticeship.
• "lathe operator": a person whose job is to use a lathe.
  • The factory is hiring an experienced lathe operator.

Variants and Related Words

• Turning: (n) The process or activity of shaping wood, metal, etc., on a lathe.
  • Wood turning is a skilled craft.
• Turning lathe: (n) Another term for a lathe, emphasizing its function for turning operations.
• Lathe bed: (n) The heavy, rigid base of a lathe that supports its other components.
• Lathe chuck: (n) A clamping device on a lathe that holds the rotating workpiece.

Synonyms

• Turning machine: A machine used for turning operations.
• Engine lathe: A common type of lathe.

Notes

• The verb form "to lathe" (meaning to shape on a lathe) is rare and often considered non-standard or dated. The standard verb is "to turn."
  • He will turn the brass rod on the lathe. (Preferred)
  • He will lathe the brass rod. (Less common)

Noun

1. machine tool for shaping metal or wood; the workpiece turns about a horizontal axis against a fixed tool