nozzle

[ noz-uhl ]

noun

1. a projecting spout, terminal discharging pipe, or the like, as of a hose or bellows.
2. Slang. the nose.
3. the spout of a teapot.
4. the socket of a candlestick.

nozzle

/ ˈnɒzəl /

noun

1. a projecting pipe or spout from which fluid is discharged
2. Also calledpropelling nozzle a pipe or duct, esp in a jet engine or rocket, that directs the effluent and accelerates or diffuses the flow to generate thrust
3. a socket, such as the part of a candlestick that holds the candle

Word History and Origins

Origin of nozzle¹

1600–10; earlier nosle; nose, -le

Word History and Origins

Origin of nozzle¹

C17 nosle, nosel, diminutive of nose

Example Sentences

Like water spraying through a narrow nozzle, the winds are accelerated as they enter the canyons, often reaching gale-force strength by the time they exit into Los Angeles and San Bernardino.

From Los Angeles Times

The inquiry saw images of the unusual perfume container, which was made up of a glass bottle, a silver screw cap and a white nozzle, similar to what would be found in a throat spray.

From BBC

As the engine nozzle’s shape is round, he says it can be picked up by radar.

From BBC

Social media platforms have had a mercurial relationship with publishers, too, funneling readers to news sites before turning down the nozzle to a slow drip.

From Slate

Add a hand-held nozzle to the shower head to facilitate rinsing off while seated.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• faucet
• spigot