spoke1
n.
- each of the bars or wire rods connecting the centre of a wheel to its rim.
- each of a set of radial handles projecting from a ship's wheel.
- each of the metal rods in an umbrella to which the material is attached.
Phrase
- put a spoke in someone's wheel
Brit. prevent someone from carrying out a plan.
Derivative
Etymology
OE spāca, of W. Gmc origin, from the base of spike1.