What does welding mean?
Welding is the process of joining two or more pieces of material, especially metal, by heating the contact surfaces and usually applying pressure. Common methods include arc welding, gas welding, spot welding, and several resistance-welding techniques. The term may also describe similar procedures for joining certain thermoplastics. In industry, welding is essential in shipbuilding, vehicle manufacture, construction, and pipeline installation because it creates strong, durable joints. As a verb, it refers to making such a joint, as in a technician welding a steel bracket into place. Figuratively, welding can mean uniting people or groups that have been divided, a usage often found in political and social discussion. The word is used in both British and American English and is pronounced with stress on the first syllable. Its history is rooted in the older craft of smithing: workers long joined hot iron by heating it and hammering the pieces together, centuries before modern electric welding equipment was developed.
The process of joining or fusing materials, especially metals, by heat and pressure; also a particular joint formed in this way.
"Regular inspection of the welding is essential for the safety of the structure."
The process is usually treated as an uncountable noun, though weldings can refer to individual joints or welded sections.
The present participle of weld, meaning to join materials by heat and pressure.
"He is welding a replacement hinge onto the gate."
This form is normally used in continuous constructions, such as welding, welded, or has been welding.
The plural is uncommon because welding is usually used as an uncountable noun for the process.
"Inspectors examined the weldings around the pressure vessel."
Long before arc welders existed, smiths joined pieces of hot iron by hammering them together.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does welding come from?
Welding developed from the older English verb weld, meaning to join or fuse metal by heating it and hammering the pieces together. The term appeared in Middle English and initially referred more narrowly to this smithing technique. Modern welding acquired a broader range of meanings as mechanical, electrical, and industrial joining methods were developed during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
Related word forms
How welding is actually used
Welding is primarily a technical and industrial term, though the verb is also used figuratively in political, social, and organizational contexts. As a gerund, it can name an activity: She enjoys welding.
Easily confused with welding
Welding joins materials by heat and pressure, whereas wielding means holding or using something such as authority or a tool.