tirette

Tirette is a term derived from the French word for "pull," and it commonly refers to a small pull handle or lever. In various contexts, a tirette serves as a mechanism for operation or release.

One frequent application of a tirette is in mechanical devices. For instance, in some older bicycles, a tirette might be used as a brake lever or a gear shifter. In furniture design, tirettes can be found on drawers or doors, acting as pull handles to open them. They are also used in certain types of locks or latches for manual manipulation.

The design of a tirette can vary significantly depending on its purpose and the surrounding object. It can be a simple metal loop, a shaped plastic tab, or a more elaborate lever. The key characteristic is its function as a point of manual engagement to initiate an action, such as pulling, pushing, or sliding. The term is less common in modern industrial design where more standardized terminology like "handle," "lever," or "actuator" is often preferred, but it remains recognizable in specific historical or niche applications.