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Escapement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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escapement

[ษชหˆskeษชp.mษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mechanical device

An escapement is a mechanical device that allows controlled release of energy from a power source in timekeeping mechanisms, such as clocks and watches. It converts the continuous motion of a gear into discrete steps, enabling accurate time measurement.

Synonyms

control device, mechanism, regulator.

Examples of usage

  • The clock uses a pendulum and escapement to keep time.
  • Without the escapement, the watch would not function properly.
  • The design of the escapement affects the accuracy of the timepiece.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In horology, the study of time and timekeeping, the escapement is crucial for converting energy from the weight of the clock into measured time.
  • The popular Swiss lever escapement is known for its accuracy and is widely used in mechanical watches.

History

  • Early escapements were created to help regulate the descent of weights in mechanical clocks, leading to more consistent timekeeping.
  • The invention of the escapement was pivotal in the development of accurate clocks during the Renaissance.

Art and Culture

  • The intricacy of escapements can be seen as artistic in high-end watchmaking, where craftsmanship becomes a form of artistic expression.
  • Escapement mechanisms often reflect cultural shifts in technology and precision, influencing both art and daily life.

Technology

  • Modern advancements have led to the development of quartz escapements, which use electric signals to keep time rather than mechanical parts.
  • The transition from mechanical escapements to electronic ones has revolutionized the way we perceive and measure time.

Origin of 'escapement'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the French word 'escapement,' which referred to a mechanism that enabled movement.
  • Its early use dates back to the 16th century when clockmakers started refining timekeeping devices.

The term 'escapement' derives from the late Middle Ages, specifically from the Old French word 'escapement,' meaning 'to escape.' The original sense of the word referred to the action of allowing something to escape or be released. In the context of clocks and watches, the escapement mechanism became crucial in regulating the release of energy from the mainspring to the gear train. As timekeeping technology evolved, the escapement design underwent various changes, leading to more accurate timepieces. One of the earliest forms of escapement was the verge escapement, developed in the 13th century, which was essential for advancing the art of horology. The modern standard escapement is based on innovations from the 17th century, including the development of the pendulum by Christiaan Huygens, which greatly improved accuracy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,960, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.