Definition of hinge

The origin of the word "hinge" can be traced back to Old English, a language spoken in early medieval England. The Old English word "hyng" meant "joint" or "bend," which referred to the part of a door or gate that allowed it to swing open and closed. The Old English word "hyng" is believed to have been derived from the Germanic language, as it shares similarities with the Old Frisian word "hingga" and the Old Saxon word "hinkga." The exact meaning of the root word from which these words originated is unknown, but it is believed to have referred to a "curved or bent shape" in general. The Old English word "hyng" evolved over time as the English language continued to develop. In Middle English, the word "hyngge" was in use, but by the late 15th century, it had been simplified to "hinge." Today, the word "hinge" is used to refer to a material component, typically made of metal or wood, that consists of a pin or socket and a bearing surface that allows a door, lid, or gate to swing freely on a fixed axis. The use of hinges can be traced back to ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Romans, who used simple hinges made of iron and bronze to fasten their doors and gates. In summary, the word "hinge" comes from the Old English word "hyng," which meant "joint" or "bend," and evolved over time to refer to the part of a door, lid, or gate that allows it to swing open and closed.