cotter

1 of 2

noun (1)

cot·​ter ˈkä-tər How to pronounce cotter (audio)
1
: a wedge-shaped or tapered piece used to fasten together parts of a structure
2
: cotter pin
cottered
ˈkä-tərd How to pronounce cotter (audio)
adjective
cotterless
ˈkä-tər-ləs How to pronounce cotter (audio)
adjective

cotter

2 of 2

noun (2)

cot·​ter

variant spelling of cottar

: a peasant or farm laborer who occupies a cottage and sometimes a small holding of land usually in return for services

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

origin unknown

First Known Use

Noun (1)

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cotter was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing cotter

Dictionary Entries Near cotter

cotte

cotter

cotter drill

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Cotter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cotter. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

cotter

noun
cot·​ter ˈkät-ər How to pronounce cotter (audio)
: a wedge-shaped piece used to fasten parts together
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