Mainspring: meaning, definitions and examples
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mainspring
[ ˈmeɪnˌsprɪŋ ]
mechanical devices
A mainspring is the primary spring in a mechanical device that provides the motive power. It is usually wound up to store energy and releases it gradually to drive the mechanism, such as in watches or clocks. The mainspring is crucial in ensuring the accurate movement of the gears and the overall functionality of the device. The health of a device can often be determined by the condition of its mainspring.
Synonyms
coil spring, spring, tension spring
Examples of usage
- The clock stopped working because the mainspring broke.
- He cleaned and oiled the mainspring to restore the watch's functionality.
- The craftsman expertly replaced the worn mainspring in the antique watch.
Translations
Translations of the word "mainspring" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mola principal
🇮🇳 मुख्य वसंत
🇩🇪 Feder
🇮🇩 pegas utama
🇺🇦 головна пружина
🇵🇱 sprężyna główna
🇯🇵 メインスプリング
🇫🇷 ressort principal
🇪🇸 resorte principal
🇹🇷 ana yay
🇰🇷 주 스프링
🇸🇦 زنبرك رئيسي
🇨🇿 hlavní pružina
🇸🇰 hlavná pružina
🇨🇳 主发条
🇸🇮 glavna vzmet
🇮🇸 meginfjaðrir
🇰🇿 негізгі серіппе
🇬🇪 მთავარი სპრინგი
🇦🇿 əsas yay
🇲🇽 resorte principal
Etymology
The term 'mainspring' dates back to the 15th century, deriving from Middle English roots. It is a compound of 'main', meaning primary or chief, and 'spring', indicating a device that stores mechanical energy. The usage of mainsprings became especially relevant during the development of mechanical clocks and watches in Europe. Craftsmen in the clockmaking industry recognized the critical role that these springs played in the overall timing mechanism. The evolution of the mainspring coincided with advancements in metallurgy and engineering, allowing for more refined and smaller springs that could enhance the precision of timekeeping. Over the centuries, the mainspring has become synonymous with the idea of the driving force behind a mechanical action, leading to its continued relevance in both traditional and modern gadgetry.