Word
coupler
Phoneticscou·pler, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkəpɫɝ/
UK/kˈʌplɐ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a small device that joins two things together, like two train cars, two pipes, or two hoses. You use it so the two parts stay connected and move or work as one.
n. a mechanical or electrical device that links two components, vehicles, or circuits to pass force, motion, or a signal between them. Typically found in railway, trailer, plumbing, and electronics contexts.
Examples
“The trailer has a strong coupler at the front.”
“The workers check the coupler between the two train cars before the train leaves the station.”
“Engineers redesigned the coupler to absorb more shock on impact, reducing wear on the freight cars during long journeys across uneven track.”
Examples
simple
“The trailer has a strong coupler at the front.”
contextual
“The workers check the coupler between the two train cars before the train leaves the station.”
complex
“Engineers redesigned the coupler to absorb more shock on impact, reducing wear on the freight cars during long journeys across uneven track.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “coupler” in context.
Verb
01. coupler breaks
“If the coupler breaks, the safety chains keep the trailer attached.”
noun + verb
02. coupler connects
“The coupler connects the locomotive to the first freight wagon.”
noun + verb
03. coupler locks
“The coupler locks automatically once the two cars are pushed together.”
noun + verb
04. disconnect coupler
“Disconnect the coupler before servicing the hydraulic line.”
verb + noun
05. inspect coupler
“Engineers inspect the coupler for cracks before every long journey.”
verb + noun
Adjective
06. automatic coupler
“The new freight wagons are fitted with automatic couplers for faster shunting.”
adj + noun
07. defective coupler
“The recall was issued after a defective coupler caused two wagons to separate.”
adj + noun
08. hydraulic coupler
“The excavator uses a hydraulic coupler to switch buckets without hand tools.”
adj + noun
Noun
09. design of coupler
“The design of the coupler allows quick connection without tools.”
noun + prep + noun
10. failure of coupler
“A failure of the coupler can cause derailment or loss of load.”
noun + prep + noun
11. connect cars with a coupler
“Workers connect cars with a coupler that locks on impact.”
12. fit a quick coupler
“He fitted a quick coupler to swap hoses in seconds.”
Real-World Examples
“Placed on the rear coupler, it monitored air pressure in the brake system and reported any problems by radio signal to the locomotive cab.” Synonyms
Word family
NOUN
Related words
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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