cog

• Zahnradzahn bzw. Radzahn; bildlich ein untergeordneter, unbedeutender Mensch, der eine notwendige, aber routinemäßige Funktion erfüllt (Rädchen im Getriebe).

A noun referring to a subordinate who performs an important but routine function, or a tooth on the rim of a gear wheel.

1. Subordinate in a systemB2informal

   A person who plays a small but necessary part in a larger organization or process.

   Rädchen im Getriebe

   • He felt like just a cog in the corporate machine.
   • Every employee is a vital cog in the company's success.
   • She was a small cog in the vast political machinery.

   Synonymefunctionaryminionpawnsubordinateunderling

2. Gear toothB1formaltechnical

   One of the series of teeth on the rim of a wheel that engage with another wheel to transmit motion.

   Zahn eines Zahnrads

   • The cog on the gear wheel was worn down.
   • The machine stopped working because a cog had broken.
   • The cogs meshed perfectly to turn the mechanism.

   Synonymetooth

• Veralteter Ausdruck dafür, jemanden zu betrügen, zu täuschen oder zu manipulieren, besonders beim Würfelspiel oder durch Schmeichelei.

An archaic verb meaning to cheat, deceive, or manipulate, especially in dice games or by using flattery.

1. Roll steel ingotsC1formaltechnical

   To shape or process steel ingots by rolling them into a desired form.

   Stahlblöcke walzen

   • The factory cogs the steel ingots into sheets for construction.
   • Workers cog the metal ingots to create uniform bars.
   • The process of cogging steel requires high temperatures and precision.

2. Join pieces of wood with cogsC1formaltechnical

   To connect wooden pieces using interlocking projections (cogs) for a secure fit.

   Holzteile mit Zapfen verbinden

   • The carpenter cogged the beams together to form a sturdy frame.
   • They cog the wooden planks to create a seamless joint.
   • Traditional timber framing often involves cogging the joints.

   Synonymedovetailtenon