caster

noun

cast·​er ˈka-stər 

1

: one that casts

especially : a machine that casts type

2

or castor

ˈka-stər 

a

: a usually silver table vessel with a perforated top for sprinkling a seasoning (such as sugar or spice)

b

: a usually revolving metal stand bearing condiment containers (such as cruets, mustard pot, and often shakers) for table use : a cruet stand

3

: any of a set of wheels or rotating balls mounted in a swivel frame and used for the support and movement of furniture, trucks, and portable equipment

4

: the slight usually backward tilt from vertical of the axis of the steering mechanism of an automobile for giving directional stability to the front wheels

Examples of caster in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Moving the durable cart around was a breeze with its four casters and the front two locked in place, adding stability while grilling. —Carrie Honaker, Southern Living, 21 Oct. 2024

The big problem with traditional wheelchairs is the two front caster wheels, which passively swivel like the wheels of a shopping cart. —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 25 Oct. 2024

The old rituals of Black hair care can elicit a sense of nostalgia for those of us who grew up with hot combs heated on the stove, our hair being drenched in raw caster oil, and experiencing hair relaxers out of the box. —L'oréal Blackett, refinery29.com, 11 Oct. 2024

Each four-foot-tall loudspeaker, which weighs 141 pounds, is fitted with casters for easy placement. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing caster

• caster sugar

Kids Definition

caster

noun

cast·​er ˈkas-tər 

1

: one that casts

2

or castor

ˈkas-tər 

: a small container (as for salt) with a top having small holes

3

: a small wheel that turns freely and is used for the support and movement of furniture