Definitions of fifth wheel [ɪfθ or, often, fɪθ]

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Definition of 'fifth wheel'

Random House Webster's College Dictionary

1. (n.) fifth wheel
a horizontal ring or segment of a ring, consisting of two bands that slide on each other, placed above the front axle of a carriage and designed to support the forepart of the body while allowing it to turn freely in a horizontal plane.

2. fifth wheel
a superfluous or unwanted person or thing.

Etymology: (1870–75)

Definition of 'fifth wheel'

Princeton's WordNet

1. (noun) fifth wheel, deadwood
someone or something that is unwanted and unneeded

2. (noun) fifth wheel, spare
an extra car wheel and tire for a four-wheel vehicle

3. (noun) fifth wheel
a steering bearing that enables the front axle of a horse-drawn wagon to rotate

'fifth wheel' - Nearby Entries
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