collet

noun

col·​let ˈkä-lət How to pronounce collet (audio)
: a metal band, collar, ferrule, or flange: such as
a
: a casing or socket for holding a tool (such as a drill bit)
b
: a circle or flange in which a gem is set

Examples of collet 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.
Palm routers are only suited for up to 1/4-inch shank bits, so if your project requires something larger, get a plunge router with a 1/2 inch collet. — Alex Rennie, Popular Mechanics, 15 Feb. 2023 The work of tightening the collet, a fist-size ring, is now complete, said Cliff Lanham, senior vehicle operations manager for NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems Program. — Ashley Strickland, CNN, 20 July 2022

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, diminutive of col collar, from Latin collum neck — more at collar

First Known Use

1528, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of collet was in 1528

Rhymes for collet

See All Rhymes for collet

Browse Nearby Words

Collery
collet
collet chuck
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Cite this Entry

“Collet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/collet. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.

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