noun
- Plural of babbitt; soft metal alloys used to reduce friction in bearings and machinery.
Usage: technical; mechanical engineering
verb
- To line or coat (a bearing) with babbitt metal.
Usage: technical; mechanical engineering
Examples
- The engine's babbitts were worn and needed replacement.
- The mechanic babbitts the crankshaft bearings to restore proper fit.
- Modern babbitts contain tin, copper, and lead for optimal performance.
- The factory babbitts hundreds of bearing shells each day.
- Damaged babbitts can cause excessive friction and engine failure.