Definition
A threaded fastener with two flat, wing-shaped projections extending from the nut body, allowing it to be tightened or loosened by hand without tools.
Plain English
A nut you can spin on or off with your fingers because it has two little wings to grip.
Context Anchor
Seen during aircraft maintenance or preflight checks on parts designed to be removed or secured by hand.
Derivation
Named for the two flat projections that resemble wings extending from the sides of the nut, giving the fingers something to grip and turn.
Why Pilots Care
Allows fast removal of panels for preflight checks and maintenance without needing wrenches or other tools.
Intuition Check
Do not read “wing” as the aircraft wing here. In “wing nut,” the wings are the two finger grips on the fastener.
Example Sentence 1
He removed the two wing nuts holding the air filter cover in place during the preflight inspection.
Example Sentence 2
Check that all wing nuts on the cowling are secure before flight.