threaded
THRED-id
/ˈθred.ɪd/
Having helical ridge groves cut into internal or external surfaces designed to screw into matching components.
Describes mechanical connections joined by screwing action rather than soldering, solvent welding, or flanging.
The story behind the word. Originates from Old English 'þræd', derived from 'þrawan' (to twist). The term shifted metaphorically from twisted textile threads to describe the continuous spiral ridge machined into metal screws and pipes.
Word relationships
- screwed: Screwed is informal trade jargon, whereas threaded is the standard technical term on specification sheets.
- unthreaded: Unthreaded surfaces are smooth and must be joined via soldering, welding, or adhesive.
- smooth-bore: Smooth-bore pipe ends lack screw grooves.
Commonly confused with
- grooved: Grooved pipes use rubber gasket couplings clamped around an exterior recess rather than internal/external screw threads.
Word family
- thread (noun): A continuous helical ridge on a pipe screw.
Collocations
- threaded fitting
- threaded joint
- threaded rod
- tapered threaded
Example sentences
- "Apply PTFE sealing tape to the threaded end of the steel pipe before screwing it into the valve assembly." Piping assembly
- "High-pressure gas networks rely on threaded steel fittings wrapped with specialized pipe joint compound." Material specs
Memory hook
THREADED like a spool of THREAD, wrapping round and round. Screws together via ridges.
When not to use
Do not apply to smooth push-fit, soldered copper, or solvent-cemented PVC connections.
Fun facts
- In 1841, Joseph Whitworth invented the world's first standardized pipe thread system, enabling interchangeable pipes across different factories.
Related words
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