O-ring

[ oh-ring ]

noun

1. a ring of pliable material, as rubber or neoprene, used as a gasket: the failure of an O-ring caused the explosion that destroyed the space shuttle Challenger in 1986.

O-ring

noun

1. a rubber ring used in machinery as a seal against oil, air, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of O-ring¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Launched on an exceptionally cold morning, Challenger was brought down by eroded O-ring seals in the right booster.

From Washington Times

Launched on an exceptionally cold morning, Challenger was brought down by eroded O-ring seals in the right booster.

From Seattle Times

“What you’re not doing here is fixing the O-ring and the leak that’s causing the problem in the first place. You’re combatting a symptom or part of the problem without actually fixing the underlying design issue.”

From Washington Times

You can use copper press fittings that seal the joint with a rubber O-ring.

From Seattle Times

Boeing advised airlines in November about the issue, which has been traced to an O-ring seal and described as a slow leak — about 8 ounces of water per hour.

From Seattle Times