Meaning of "babbitt" in English

The term "babbitt" in English primarily refers to a type of metal alloy, primarily composed of tin, copper, and antimony, named after its inventor, Isaac Babbitt. It is known for its low-friction properties and is used in bearings to reduce wear and tear. Additionally, "Babbitt" can also allude to a novel by Sinclair Lewis, which critiques middle-class American life. The term gained connotations of conformity and mediocrity derived from the novel's protagonist. Within materials science and culture, the word carries distinct meanings depending on context.

Meaning of "babbitt" in French

In French, the term "babbitt" retains its technical meaning similar to English. It refers to an alloy used in the manufacturing of bearings, known for its anti-friction properties. The term has also made its way into French literary discussions due to the influence of Sinclair Lewis's novel "Babbitt," which critiques the mundane aspects of suburban life. However, cultural references are less prevalent compared to its practical applications in industries such as automotive and mechanical engineering.

Pronunciation of "babbitt" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [ˈbæbɪt].

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "babbitt" remains fairly consistent across English-speaking regions, though slight variations can occur between American and British English, mostly in the accent and intonation.

Pronunciation of "babbitt" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [babit].

Pronunciation Variations: In French, the pronunciation does not vary significantly by region, as it usually follows standard French pronunciation rules. The emphasis, as typical in French, tends to be even across syllables.

Sentence Examples in English and Translation to French

  1. He used babbitt for the engine's bearings. (Il a utilisé du babbitt pour les roulements du moteur.)
  2. Babbitt alloys are essential in reducing friction. (Les alliages babbitt sont essentiels pour réduire le frottement.)
  3. The novel "Babbitt" critiques middle-class life. (Le roman "Babbitt" critique la vie de la classe moyenne.)
  4. Babbitt bearings extend the life of machinery. (Les roulements babbitt prolongent la vie des machines.)
  5. He enjoyed reading Sinclair Lewis's "Babbitt." (Il aimait lire "Babbitt" de Sinclair Lewis.)
  6. The factory ordered more babbitt for production. (L'usine a commandé plus de babbitt pour la production.)
  7. Critics often refer to the term "Babbitt" for its cultural insight. (Les critiques se réfèrent souvent à "Babbitt" pour son aperçu culturel.)
  8. Using babbitt significantly improves engine efficiency. (L'utilisation de babbitt améliore considérablement l'efficacité du moteur.)
  9. Babbitt's structure allows smooth motion in engines. (La structure du babbitt permet un mouvement fluide dans les moteurs.)
  10. The character Babbitt embodies suburban conformity. (Le personnage Babbitt incarne la conformité suburbaine.)

Synonyms, Antonyms, and Similar Words for "babbitt" in English

Synonyms: casing, alloy, bearing metal.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: brass, bronze, tin alloy.

Synonyms, Antonyms, and Similar Words for "babbitt" in French

Synonyms: métal de coussinet, alliage antifriction, métal blanc.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: bronze, cuivre, étain.

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