Gearwheel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gearwheel
[ˈɡɪrwiːl ]
Definition
mechanical
A gearwheel is a mechanical component with teeth that meshes with another toothed component in order to transmit motion or power.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gearwheel |
Used in the context of mechanical engineering or technical discussions, often referring to a wheel with teeth that meshes with another toothed component to transmit torque.
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| gear |
Commonly used in everyday language as it refers to the function (not the actual shape) of mechanical parts, including but not limited to gearwheels. It is versatile and can be used for both technical and layman discussions.
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| cogwheel |
Primarily used in historical or less technical contexts, often referring to older machinery or to make the writing sound more vintage or archaic.
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Examples of usage
- The gearwheel turns the conveyor belt.
- The clock mechanism includes several gearwheels.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Engineering
- Gearwheels provide mechanical advantage, allowing small forces to move larger loads.
- They come in various shapes, including spur, bevel, and worm gears, each serving different functions in machinery.
- The design of gearwheels can influence the efficiency and speed of machines.
History of Technology
- Ancient Greeks invented the earliest known gears and used them in water clocks and simple machines.
- During the Industrial Revolution, the development of advanced gear systems propelled machinery and innovation.
- In clock making, gearwheels played a crucial role, helping to make more accurate timepieces.
Modern Pop Culture
- Gearwheels often appear in steampunk literature and art, symbolizing innovation and retro-futurism.
- In popular video games, gear mechanisms are used as puzzles or elements to control movement.
- Animated characters in films sometimes use gearwheels as 'helper bots' for their whimsical mechanics.
Science
- In physics, gearwheels demonstrate the principles of torque and motion transfer in mechanical systems.
- Robotics often utilizes gearwheels to control movements with precision, adapting to different tasks.
- The concept of gear ratios explains how different sized wheels allow for varied acceleration and speed.
Origin of 'gearwheel'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gear' comes from the Old English 'gier' meaning 'to turn' or 'to move'.
- The term 'wheel' has roots in the Proto-Indo-European word 'weḱ-', which means 'to turn or roll'.
- When combined, 'gear' and 'wheel' reflect the purpose of aiding movement in machinery.
The term 'gearwheel' originates from the combination of 'gear', which refers to a toothed wheel that engages with another toothed component, and 'wheel', a circular object that rotates. Gearwheels have been used in various mechanical systems since ancient times, with advancements in design and technology leading to the development of modern gear systems for industrial and transportation applications.