What does rivet mean?
A rivet is a strong metal pin or bolt used to fasten metal plates together or reinforce a structure. The head of a rivet is shaped after the shaft has been inserted, creating a secure joint. As a verb, “to rivet” means to fasten something with rivets, but it is also widely used in figurative expressions such as “to rivet attention,” meaning to hold someone’s complete focus. The figurative sense often suggests that something is compelling, dramatic, or difficult to look away from. The word is familiar in engineering, transport, construction, and manufacturing, especially in descriptions of ships, aircraft, bridges, and metal frameworks. Historically, rivets were one of the principal methods of joining metal before welding and other modern fastening techniques became widespread. Today, both literal and figurative uses remain common in British and American English.
A metal fastener consisting of a pin with a head, used to join metal pieces or strengthen a structure by passing and securing its shaft through the material.
"A single loose rivet caused the panel to shift."
To fasten or secure something with a rivet; figuratively, to hold someone's attention completely.
"The unexpected performance riveted the entire audience."
The plural is formed by adding -s to the noun.
"The workers replaced the corroded rivets on the bridge."
Before welding became dominant, rivets were the practical way to join aircraft, ships, bridges, and many everyday metal objects.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rivet come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Old French rivet, a word with a Germanic origin traditionally connected with Middle Dutch terms for a small fastening or rivet. English initially used the noun for a metal fastening, while the verbal meaning developed directly from the action of fastening with such a pin. The word was especially important in metalworking and shipbuilding before welding became common.
Related word forms
How rivet is actually used
The verb is commonly used figuratively in expressions such as “rivet attention” and “be riveted,” meaning to focus intensely or remain completely absorbed. In British and American English, “rivet” is also used technically for a permanent fastening, especially in metal construction.
Easily confused with rivet
A rivet is a metal fastener, whereas a riddle is a puzzle or question intended to be solved.