pushpiece

Pushpiece is a descriptive term for a component designed to be pushed in order to activate, release, or reposition a mechanism. It does not refer to a single standardized part, but rather to any piece whose primary function is to receive or transmit a pushing action.

In switches and controls, pushpieces commonly take the form of plungers, pushbuttons, or pusher elements that translate a user touch into movement of internal contacts or cams. They are often paired with springs to return the device to its resting state.

In furniture and cabinetry, pushpieces are used in push-to-open latches and hidden drawer pulls, providing a clean, handle-free appearance. A pushpiece engages with a striker or catch to release a latch when pressed.

In puzzles and games, a pushpiece may describe a movable block or tile that can be shifted only by a push, as in Sokoban-style challenges.

In manufacturing and tooling, pushpieces include spring-loaded studs or detents on jigs and fixtures that index or align workpieces when pressed.

The term is descriptive rather than formal, appearing in engineering notes, catalogs, and hobbyist guides. Context determines whether it refers to a button actuator, a latch element, a game piece, or a jig component.

Alternatives such as pusher, plunger, or actuator are used depending on the specific function and industry.