bolt

A metal pin or bar used with a nut to fasten parts together, or a sliding bar used to secure a door or gate.

• He tightened the loose bolt on the bicycle frame before riding.

• Did you remember to slide the heavy bolt across the front door?

A flash of lightning, especially one seen as a single streak.

• A sudden bolt of lightning struck the tall pine tree in the yard.

• Have you ever seen a lightning bolt split the sky so clearly?

A large roll of fabric or wallpaper as it comes from the factory.

• She bought an entire bolt of silk to make custom curtains.

• How many bolts of that linen do you currently have in stock?

To fasten something firmly in place with a threaded metal pin, or to lock a door with a sliding bar.

• Workers will bolt the heavy machinery to the concrete floor tomorrow.

• The back gate was securely bolted against intruders.

To run away suddenly and quickly, often out of fear or to escape.

• The startled deer bolted across the road into the dense woods.

• Why did the suspect suddenly bolt when the officer approached?

To swallow food quickly without chewing it properly.

• Do not bolt your lunch or you will end up with an upset stomach.

• He had bolted down two sandwiches before anyone else sat down.

To produce flowers and seeds prematurely instead of continuing leafy growth.

• The lettuce will bolt if the afternoon temperatures rise too high.

• Has the spinach in your garden started to bolt yet?