Babbitt

Babbitt is a soft, low-friction metal alloy traditionally used as a bearing material in machinery. It is composed mainly of tin, lead, or copper, and is cast or poured into small cavities around a rotating shaft to reduce wear and prevent damage. Its properties allow it to conform slightly to the shaft’s shape, providing a smooth surface for rotation while absorbing minor imperfections and reducing friction. This helps machinery run more smoothly and lasts longer. The term “Babbitt” can also refer to a type of leadership or conforming behavior, derived metaphorically from the metal’s role in machinery.