n. & v.
--n.
1. a device for fastening (esp. a garment), consisting of a crosspiece which can pass through a hole or loop in one position but not in another.
2 a pin or other crosspiece put through the eye of a rope, a link of a chain, etc., to keep it in place.
3 a pivoted barb on a harpoon.
4 Computing a switch action that is operated the same way but with opposite effect on successive occasions.
--v.tr. provide or fasten with a toggle.
Phrases and idioms:
toggle joint a device for exerting pressure along two jointed rods by applying a transverse force at the joint. toggle switch an electric switch with a projecting lever to be moved usu. up and down.
Etymology: 18th-c. Naut.: orig. unkn.