lathe

1 of 2

noun

: a machine in which work is rotated about a horizontal axis and shaped by a fixed tool

lathe

2 of 2

verb

lathed; lathing

transitive verb

: to cut or shape with a lathe

Examples of lathe in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Creech was the fourth person to survive a lathe execution in just the last few years. Michael Ruiz, Fox News, 24 Jan. 2025 Functional artist Andrew Jacobs was enticed by the wooden sphere by chance: The lathe was the most versatile and cost-saving tool when first building out his shop. Sophie Collé, Architectural Digest, 27 Dec. 2024
Verb
Planes will still fly, lathes with still turn, corn will get harvested. David G.w. Birch, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for lathe 

Word History

Etymology

Noun

probably from Middle English lath supporting stand

First Known Use

Noun

1611, in the meaning defined above

Verb

circa 1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lathe was in 1611

Dictionary Entries Near lathe

Cite this Entry

“Lathe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lathe. Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

lathe

noun
ˈlāt͟h
: a machine in which a piece of material is held and turned while being shaped by a tool

More from Merriam-Webster on lathe

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