Meaning & use
lugs
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“lugs” is a form of “lug”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
nounplural
Small pieces that stick out from a larger object, used for gripping, fastening, or connecting.
Grammar: Usually plural; the singular 'lug' refers to one such piece.
Patterns
- lugs on something
- with lugs
The rubber boots have lugs on the bottom to stop you slipping.
Check that the lugs on the battery are clean before connecting the cables.
nounpluraltechnical
Projecting pieces on a machine part that fit into slots or holes to hold it in place.
Grammar: Technical use; often in the plural when referring to a pair or set.
Patterns
- lugs on a wheel
- engage the lugs
The wheel has four lugs that lock into the hub.
Make sure the lugs are aligned before you tighten the screws.
Word forms
| singular | lug |
|---|
Common combinations
- tire lugs
- The tire lugs provide traction on muddy ground.
- battery lugs
- He cleaned the battery lugs with a wire brush.
- mounting lugs
- The mounting lugs broke off when the shelf fell.
- lugs on a boot
- The lugs on these boots are deep enough for hiking.
Synonyms and how they differ
- tabs
- Tabs are usually flat and flexible, while lugs are thicker and more rigid.
- protrusions
- Protrusions is a general word for anything sticking out; lugs is more specific to mechanical or gripping parts.
Word family
- lug noun
- A single projecting piece; also a handle on a container.
Commonly confused: lugs or logs?
lugs vs logs
Logs are pieces of wood; lugs are small projections.
Practice
The boots have deep ___ on the soles to give good grip on ice.
Choose one answer.
The plural 'lugs' is needed because there are many small projections. 'Lug' (singular) would mean only one, and 'lugging' is a verb form that does not fit here.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “lugs”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.