Bolt
/bɒlt/
Last Updated: January 2, 2026 at 12:30 PM
Scrabble:6 ptsWWF:8 pts4 letters
Definition of Bolt
noun
- A (usually) metal fastener consisting of a cylindrical body that is threaded, with a larger head on one end. It can be inserted into an unthreaded hole up to the head, with a nut then threaded on the other end; a heavy machine screw.
- A sliding pin or bar in a lock or latch mechanism.
- A bar of wood or metal dropped in horizontal hooks on a door and adjoining wall or between the two sides of a double door, to prevent the door(s) from being forced open.
- A sliding mechanism to chamber and unchamber a cartridge in a firearm.
- A small personal-armour-piercing missile for short-range use, or (in common usage though deprecated by experts) a short arrow, intended to be shot from a crossbow or a catapult.
verb
- To connect or assemble pieces using a bolt.
"Bolt the vice to the bench."
- To secure a door by locking or barring it.
"Bolt the door."
- To flee, to depart, to accelerate suddenly.
"Seeing the snake, the horse bolted."
- To cause to start or spring forth; to dislodge (an animal being hunted).
"to bolt a rabbit"
- To strike or fall suddenly like a bolt.