Bolt \Bolt\, n. [AS. bolt; akin to Icel. bolti, Dan. bolt, D.
   bout, OHG. bolz, G. bolz, bolzen; of uncertain origin.]
   1. A shaft or missile intended to be shot from a crossbow or
      catapult, esp. a short, stout, blunt-headed arrow; a
      quarrel; an arrow, or that which resembles an arrow; a
      dart.
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            Look that the crossbowmen lack not bolts. --Sir W.
                                                  Scott.
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            A fool's bolt is soon shot.           --Shak.
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   2. Lightning; a thunderbolt.
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   3. A strong pin, of iron or other material, used to fasten or
      hold something in place, often having a head at one end
      and screw thread cut upon the other end.
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   4. A sliding catch, or fastening, as for a door or gate; the
      portion of a lock which is shot or withdrawn by the action
      of the key.
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   5. An iron to fasten the legs of a prisoner; a shackle; a
      fetter. [Obs.]
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            Away with him to prison!
            lay bolts enough upon him.            --Shak.
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   6. A compact package or roll of cloth, as of canvas or silk,
      often containing about forty yards.
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   7. A bundle, as of oziers.
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   Bolt auger, an auger of large size; an auger to make holes
      for the bolts used by shipwrights.

   Bolt and nut, a metallic pin with a head formed upon one
      end, and a movable piece (the nut) screwed upon a thread
      cut upon the other end. See B, C, and D, in illust. above.
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   Note: See Tap bolt, Screw bolt, and Stud bolt.
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