bügel

Bügel is a German noun (masculine) with several related meanings centered on a curved or supporting piece of metal or other material. The core idea is a bent or looped element used to attach, support, or carry, often forming a handle, hook, or bracket.

Common uses include:

- In hardware and furniture, a Bügel is a curved or straight metal loop used as a fastener or support, such as U-Bügel (a U-shaped bracket) or Bügelgriffe (handles).

- On clothing and accessories, the term appears in compound names for parts that protrude or loop, notably Kleiderbügel (clothes hanger) and Brillenbügel (temples of eyeglasses).

- In clothing construction, der Unterbügel refers to the underwire in bras and other supportive garments; here the Bügel is a slender, often rigid wire providing shape and support.

In other technical contexts, Bügel can denote any supporting loop or bracket used to connect or suspend components, such as a lifting Bügel or mounting Bügel, depending on industry.

Etymology: The word derives from a root meaning bend or arch, reflecting the form of the object. It is attested in older Germanic usage and evolved to cover various bent or looped components.

See also: Kleiderbügel, Brillenbügel, Unterbügel, U-Bügel.