cotter

== English == === Pronunciation === (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /kɒtə/ (General American) IPA(key): /kɑtɚ/ Rhymes: -ɒtə(ɹ) === Etymology 1 === Unknown. ==== Noun ==== cotter (plural cotters) (mechanical engineering) A pin or wedge inserted through a slot to hold machine parts together. (informal) A cotter pin. ===== Usage notes ===== The terms cotter and cotter pin are sometimes used interchangeably, although they have different functions. For a more detailed explanation see Wikipedia articles on cotter pin, cotter (pin), and split pin. ===== Derived terms ===== ===== Related terms ===== cotter pin ===== Translations ===== ==== Verb ==== cotter (third-person singular simple present cotters, present participle cottering, simple past and past participle cottered) (transitive) To fasten with a cotter. === Etymology 2 === From Middle English cotter, cotere, kottere, koter, cotier, equivalent to cot (“cottage”) +‎ -er, from Old English cot. Compare Old French coter, cotier. ==== Alternative forms ==== cottar ==== Noun ==== cotter (plural cotters) (historical) A peasant who performed labour in exchange for the right to live in a cottage. ===== Synonyms ===== coscet cottager ===== Translations =====