babbitt
What is another word for babbitt? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.
Noun — A soft metal alloy used to line bearings and reduce friction.
We haven't recorded synonyms for babbitt yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.
Etymology
The metal is named after its American inventor, Isaac Babbitt (1799-1862); the "conformist" sense comes from the title character of Sinclair Lewis's 1922 novel Babbitt.
Full origin of babbitt →Frequently asked questions
What does “babbitt” mean?
The word “babbitt” means a soft metal alloy used to line bearings and reduce friction. In plain terms, either a metal alloy for machine bearings, or (from a novel) an insult for someone who is smugly conventional.
How do you pronounce “babbitt”?
“Babbitt” is pronounced BA-biht (/ˈbæbɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “babbitt” in a sentence?
Here is “babbitt” used in a sentence: “The old engine's bearings were relined with babbitt.”
What part of speech is “babbitt”?
Depending on how it is used, “babbitt” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “babbitt” come from?
The word “babbitt” dates back to around 1799. The metal is named after its American inventor, Isaac Babbitt (1799-1862); the "conformist" sense comes from the title character of Sinclair Lewis's 1922 novel Babbitt.
How many meanings does “babbitt” have?
“Babbitt” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a soft metal alloy used to line bearings and reduce friction.
