Pronunciation: [hˈɪnd͡ʒɪz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "hinges" may seem straightforward, but it can trip up even experienced spellers. The first sound is /h/, followed by a short /i/ sound as in "hit." Next comes the "ng" sound, written as /ŋ/. The final sound is a voiced /zh/ sound, which can also be written as /j/. So the full IPA transcription of "hinges" is /ˈhɪndʒɪz/. With practice, this tricky spelling will become easier to remember.
Hinges are mechanical devices or pieces of hardware that serve as a connection between two objects, typically allowing one of them to pivot or rotate relative to the other. They are commonly used in doors, windows, cabinets, gates, and other movable structures to provide support, stability, and facilitate movement.
The basic structure of hinges consists of two principal parts: one attached to each of the objects to be connected, known as the hinge plates or leaves. The leaves are typically flat and elongated, designed to fit together in such a way that they can rotate around a fixed axis called the pivot point or hinge pin. The pivot point is usually located at the center of the hinge, ensuring equal movement on both sides.
Hinges can vary in size, design, and materials used for construction, depending on their intended application. They can be made of metal, such as steel or brass, or even plastic. Types of hinges include butt hinges, piano hinges, continuous hinges, strap hinges, and pivot hinges, among others, each serving different purposes based on their specific design and construction.
The primary function of hinges is to allow the opening and closing of objects, enabling movement along a fixed axis. They also provide support, stability, and alignment, ensuring proper functioning and preventing excessive strain or stress. Additionally, hinges can be designed to have specific features, such as self-closing mechanisms or the ability to be concealed, depending on the desired functionality and aesthetic appearance.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "hinges" originated from the Middle English word "henge", which can be traced back to the Old English word "hengest". This ultimately came from the Proto-Germanic word "hangistaz", meaning "a hanging part". The form of "hinge" entered English during the 14th century, influenced by the Old French word "hinge", sharing the same Germanic root.
