# coupling

/ˈkəpɫɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈʌplɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/coupling
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. mechanical connector

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

a device or part used to connect two pieces of machinery or equipment together.

For teachers: a mechanical device used to connect two shafts or components for the purpose of transmitting power or fluid.

- The train cars stayed together because the metal coupling was strong.
- The engineer inspected the hydraulic coupling for leaks before the high-pressure system was activated for the morning shift.

Usage: Often used in engineering and transport contexts.

### 2. software dependency

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

how much one part of a computer program depends on another part.

For teachers: the degree to which different software modules rely on each other; low coupling is generally preferred for better maintenance.

- The programmer tried to reduce the coupling between the two modules to make the code easier to fix.
- High coupling in the legacy system made it nearly impossible to update the database schema without breaking the user interface.

Usage: Usually uncountable when referring to the abstract degree of dependency.

### 3. electronic signal transfer

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a connection that allows an electrical signal to pass from one circuit to another.

For teachers: the transfer of energy or signals between electronic circuits via induction, capacitance, or direct connection.

- The radio had poor sound because of unwanted coupling between the internal wires.
- Capacitive coupling between the parallel signal lines introduced significant noise into the high-frequency measurements.

### 4. joining together

noun · CEFR B2

the act of bringing two people or things together to form a pair.

For teachers: the process or act of joining two entities together to function as a unit or couple.

- The coupling of these two famous brands created a very powerful new company.
- The successful coupling of traditional craftsmanship with modern design principles resulted in a product that appealed to all generations.

### 5. sexual intercourse

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

a formal or scientific way to describe two animals or people having sex.

For teachers: the act of sexual intercourse, typically used in biological or formal sociological contexts.

- The scientists observed the coupling of the rare birds during the spring.
- The documentary detailed the complex rituals that precede coupling in various deep-sea species.

## Examples

- The coupling between the two trains broke during the journey.
- Engineers checked the coupling to ensure the engine could pull the heavy cargo safely.
- Statistical coupling between economic indicators suggests that inflation often rises alongside interest rates, complicating monetary policy decisions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.