Escapement: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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