caster

Caster is a term with several distinct meanings across different contexts.

In fantasy literature and role-playing games, a caster refers to a character who uses magic or performs spellcasting. The term is used to distinguish spellcasters from non-magical or physically focused characters and can describe classes such as wizards, clerics, or sorcerers, as well as any character who primarily employs magic.

In metalworking and manufacturing, a caster is a person who performs casting, the process of shaping molten material by pouring it into a mold. Castery can refer to workers in foundries or workshops who cast metal or other substances into the desired forms.

In furniture and equipment hardware, a caster is a small wheel mounted on a swiveling bracket, designed to be attached to the bottom of objects such as chairs, carts, or equipment to enable easy movement. Castors are commonly used on office chairs, service carts, and industrial trolleys; multiple caster wheels are often employed to distribute weight and improve maneuverability.

In cooking, caster sugar is a fine, quick-dissolving sugar used in baking and beverages. Also known as superfine sugar in some regions, caster sugar is preferred when a smooth texture is desired in syrups, meringues, and chilled desserts.

The term may be confused with similar words such as castor, which has its own meanings in areas like plant seeds, oils, and surnames. As a result, context is important to determine which sense of caster is intended.