zátku

Zátka is a Czech word that translates to "stopper" or "cork" in English. It refers to a plug or device used to seal an opening, typically in a container such as a bottle, jar, or cask. The primary function of a zátka is to prevent the contents from escaping and to protect them from external contamination or evaporation.

The materials used for zátky vary widely depending on their application. Traditional cork stoppers, made from the bark of the cork oak tree, are commonly used for wine bottles due to their elasticity and ability to create an airtight seal. Other common materials include rubber, plastic, metal, and glass. Plastic stoppers are often found in food and beverage containers, offering a cost-effective and durable sealing solution. Metal caps, frequently with a rubber or plastic liner, are used for jars and bottles requiring a more robust seal.

The design of a zátka can also differ significantly. Some are simple cylindrical plugs, while others feature screw threads for secure fastening or specialized mechanisms for easy opening and closing. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that blocks or obstructs something else, such as a traffic jam being a "zátka" in the flow of vehicles. In a broader sense, it signifies a closure or a hindrance.