Casters ([kæstərs]) are small wheels or rollers that are attached to the bottom of furniture, cabinets, or other objects to make them easier to move. The word "casters" is spelled with a "c" instead of a "k" because it comes from the Middle English word "castour," which was borrowed from the Old French word "castor." The "ou" in "castour" was pronounced as "oo" and eventually became "o" in modern English. The "-er" at the end of the word is a suffix commonly used to indicate a person or object that performs a specific function.
Casters refer to wheels or swivel mechanisms attached to the bottom of furniture or equipment to facilitate mobility and ease of movement. They are typically made of hard rubber, plastic, or metal and are designed to provide stability and smooth rolling on various surfaces.
The main function of casters is to enable the convenient movement of objects, such as chairs, tables, carts, and heavy machinery, across different types of flooring. These wheels are often mounted onto a swivel base, allowing the object to rotate and change direction effortlessly. This feature is particularly beneficial in situations where frequent repositioning or relocation is required, as it reduces the need for lifting or dragging heavy items.
Casters come in a wide range of sizes, styles, and load capacities to accommodate different applications. Some casters are fixed, allowing movement in a straight line only, while others feature swivel capabilities, enabling multidirectional mobility. The selection of casters depends on the weight of the object, the terrain or environment in which they will be used, and the desired level of movement flexibility.
In addition to their functional purpose, casters often contribute to the aesthetic appeal of furniture or equipment. They can be chosen to match the overall design or style of the item, serving as decorative accents while maintaining their basic function.
Small wheels attached to the legs of sofas, tables, &c.-sometimes written castors.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "casters" is derived from the Middle English word "castour", which was derived from the Old French word "castour" or "casteur". This word came from the Latin word "castor", which originally referred to a beaver. In the Middle Ages, beavers were admired for their ability to build intricate dams and canals, and the word "castor" evolved to represent anything associated with construction or mobility. In this context, "castors" referred to wheels or rollers attached to the bottom of furniture or other objects to enable them to move easily. Over time, the spelling transformed to "casters" in English.