a metal or wooden bar that is used to fasten doors and gates, a type of screw with a flat head and a square or hexagonal shape beneath it, to run away suddenly because of being frightened

bolt from the blue, bolt upright, shoot the bolt

Formal and Informal Expressions of bolt

In different contexts, you can replace 'bolt' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'fastener' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'screw, run away' is a commonplace synonym.

bolt: Explore its Definition & Usage

bolt Definition

1a metal or wooden bar that is used to fasten doors and gates
2a type of screw with a flat head and a square or hexagonal shape beneath it
3to run away suddenly because of being frightened

Using bolt: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bolt" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He slid the bolt across the door.
Example
The door was secured with a heavy bolt.
Example
I need to buy some bolts to fix the shelf.
Example
The horse bolted when it heard the loud noise.
Example
She bolted from the room in a panic.

bolt Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for bolt

Antonyms for bolt

Phrases with bolt

bolt from the blue
a sudden and unexpected event
Example
The news of his death came as a bolt from the blue.
bolt upright
sitting up straight and suddenly
Example
He woke up bolt upright in bed.
shoot the bolt
to lock a door or gate with a bolt
Example
Make sure you shoot the bolt before you leave.

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Summary: bolt in Brief

The term 'bolt' [bohlt] refers to a metal or wooden bar used to fasten doors and gates, or a type of screw with a flat head. It also means to run away suddenly due to fear. Examples include 'He slid the bolt across the door,' and 'The horse bolted when it heard the loud noise.' Phrases like 'bolt from the blue' denote sudden and unexpected events, while 'bolt upright' describes sitting up straight suddenly.