—n. - sliding bar and socket used to fasten a door etc.

- large metal pin with a thread, usu. Used with a nut, to hold things together.

- discharge of lightning.

- act of bolting. —v. - fasten with a bolt.

- (foll. By in, out) keep (a person etc.) In or out by bolting a door.

- fasten together with bolts.

- a dash off suddenly. B (of a horse) suddenly gallop out of control.

- gulp down (food) unchewed.

- (of a plant) run to seed. —adv. (usu. In bolt upright) rigidly, stiffly. bolt from the blue complete surprise. [old english]

- v. (also boult) sift (flour etc.). [french]