Meaning & use
brake linings
Last updated
“brake linings” is a form of “brake lining”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meaning
nounpluraltechnical
The friction material attached to brake shoes or pads that presses against a moving part to slow or stop a vehicle.
Grammar: Use with plural verbs: 'The brake linings are worn.' For one piece, say 'a brake lining'.
Patterns
- replace brake linings
- worn brake linings
- brake linings wear out
The mechanic said the brake linings needed to be replaced.
Worn brake linings can make a squealing noise when you press the pedal.
He checked the brake linings before the long road trip.
Word forms
| singular | brake lining |
|---|
Common combinations
- worn brake linings
- Worn brake linings reduce stopping power.
- replace brake linings
- You should replace brake linings every 30,000 miles or so.
- brake linings wear out
- Brake linings wear out faster in city driving.
- inspect brake linings
- The garage will inspect the brake linings during a service.
Synonyms and how they differ
- brake pads
- Similar function, but 'brake pads' are used in disc brakes, while 'brake linings' are more often in drum brakes.
- brake shoes
- The curved metal part that the lining is attached to; not the same as the lining itself.
Word family
Commonly confused: brake linings or brake lines?
brake linings vs brake lines
These are the tubes that carry brake fluid, not the friction material.
Practice
The car failed its safety test because the ______ were too thin.
Choose one answer.
The plural 'brake linings' agrees with 'were' and refers to the friction material. 'Brake lining' is singular and would need 'was'; 'brake lines' are fluid tubes, and 'brakes lining' is not a standard phrase.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “brake linings”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.