Definition of shuttle

The word "shuttle" originated from the Middle English word "shotel" or "shottele," which meant "small shot" or "little arrow." The term referred to the shuttle, a small object used in weaving, as it was often compared to a small arrow that travels back and forth through the warp threads of a loom. In the early 16th century, the term "shuttle" was introduced into the English language to specifically describe the small object used in weaving. The derived Latin word “scuticula,” meaning "little shield," also influenced the word, as the shuttle's back and forth motion resembled that of a shield being thrown. The word "shuttle" has since evolved to refer to various things, such as a spacecraft that carries astronauts and cargo between Earth and space stations, or a transport aircraft used in the military for troop transport or cargo resupply. However, its original use in weaving remains a significant part of its history, showcasing the versatility and origin of this helpful word.