coupling
UK: ˈkʌplɪŋ | US: ˈkʌplɪŋ
n. the act of connecting or joining two things together
n. a device that connects two parts of a machine or system
n. (physics) the interaction between two systems or processes
The word "coupling" originates from the Old French "cople," meaning "a pair" or "to join," which itself derives from the Latin "copula" (a bond or link). The suffix "-ing" was added in Middle English to form a noun indicating the action or result of joining. Over time, "coupling" expanded from literal connections (e.g., train cars) to abstract interactions (e.g., in physics). The morphemes preserve the original spelling, reflecting the word's logical progression from physical linkage to broader applications.
The coupling between the train cars was securely fastened.
Engineers designed a new coupling mechanism for the machinery.
The study examined the coupling of economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Loose coupling in software design improves system flexibility.
Magnetic coupling allows power transfer without physical contact.