1.A ring or cap of metal put round a cane, tool, handle, or other similar object, to strengthen it, or prevent splitting and wearing.
2.(Machinery) Any of various circular or cylindrical metal objects used at joints in a tube, pipe, or rod, especially to assist making a tight seal at a joint.
3.Hence: (Steam Boilers) A bushing for expanding the end of a flue to fasten it tightly in the tube plate, or for partly filling up its mouth.
4.Hence: (Chemistry) A bushing used at the joints of metal tubing in HPLC equipment to make a tight seal.
5.(Fishing) One of several small rings at the top of a casting rod which holds the fishing line.
