shim etymology

Etymology

The word "shim" is believed to have originated from one of the following sources:

  • Old English "scimma" (pronounced "shim-ma"): a thin layer or wedge
  • Old Norse "skjemma": a flaw or blemish
  • Middle English "shimmy": to move or shake in an irregular, jerky way

Meaning

A shim is a thin, flat piece of material used to fill a gap, level a surface, or adjust the position or fit of an object. It can be made of various materials such as metal, wood, plastic, or rubber.

Origin

The use of shims dates back centuries. Archaeological evidence suggests that shims were used in ancient Egyptian woodworking to level and stabilize structures. In the medieval period, shims were commonly employed in construction and carpentry to provide a secure fit for windows, doors, and other building components.

Throughout history, shims have been used in a wide range of industries and applications. They are essential in engineering, manufacturing, and maintenance to ensure precise alignment and proper functioning of machinery, equipment, and structures.

shim relate terms

  • wedge

    Etymology Wedge comes from the Middle English word wegge itself derived from the Old E

  • design

    Etymology Design comes from the Middle English word desiner which is derived from th

  • skeptic

    Etymology Latin scēpticus from Greek skeptikos inquiring derived from skeptesth

  • sepulchre

    Etymology Latin sepulchrum from sepelio to bury Meaning A tomb or place of

  • peanut

    Etymology of Peanut The word peanut has two distinct etymologies English 16th ce

  • evangelist

    Etymology evangelist n ultimately from Greek εὐαγγέλιον euangelion mea

  • Goth

    Etymology The term goth is derived from the Germanic tribe known as the Goths Proto

  • engage

    Etymology From Middle English enwagen from Old English onweagian On on upon

  • epic

    Etymology The word epic originates from the Ancient Greek word epos which means wo