Dictionary
1hinge
noun \ˈhinj\
: a usually metal piece that attaches a door, gate, or cover to something and allows it to open and close
Full Definition of HINGE
1
a : a jointed or flexible device on which a door, lid, or other swinging part turns b : a flexible ligamentous joint c : a small piece of thin gummed paper used in fastening a postage stamp in an album
2
: a determining factor : turning point
See hinge defined for English-language learners
See hinge defined for kids
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Illustration of HINGE
Origin of HINGE
Middle English heng; akin to Middle Dutch henge hook, Old English hangian to hang
First Known Use: 14th century
Other Anatomy Terms
2hinge
verb
: to attach (a door, gate, or cover) by hinges
hingedhing·ing
Full Definition of HINGE
intransitive verb
: to be contingent on a single consideration or point —used with on or upon <the prosecution's case hinges on the DNA evidence>
transitive verb
: to attach by or furnish with hinges
See hinge defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of HINGE
1719
HINGES Defined for Kids
1hinge
noun \ˈhinj\
Definition of HINGE for Kids
: a jointed piece on which a door, gate, or lid turns or swings
2hinge
verb
hingedhing·ing
Definition of HINGE for Kids
: to attach by or provide with hinges
— hinge on
: to be determined or decided by <Our plans hinge on the weather.>
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