Pinion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pinion
[ˈpɪnjən ]
Definitions
mechanical component
A pinion is a round gear that engages with a larger gear or rack to transmit motion or force. It is commonly used in machinery and vehicles to convert rotational motion into linear motion. Pinions can vary in size and teeth count, which can affect the mechanical advantages they offer. In certain contexts, pinions are essential in creating a specific gear ratio that influences speed and torque.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The pinion in the car's differential helps transfer power to the wheels.
- A small pinion gear can drive a larger gear for a mechanical advantage.
- The clock mechanism uses a pinion to regulate the movement of the hands.
avian anatomy
In the context of birds, a pinion refers to the outer part of a bird's wing consisting of the primary feathers. These feathers are essential for flight, aiding in lift and maneuverability. The pinion can also refer to the specific arrangement of these feathers, which varies among different bird species. Understanding the structure of a bird's pinion is crucial for studying its flight dynamics.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The eagle's pinion feathers allow it to soar high in the sky.
- The bird's pinion was damaged, affecting its ability to fly properly.
- Observing the pinion structure can help ornithologists understand a species' flight patterns.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Bird Biology
- The pinion plays a critical role in aerodynamics, helping birds achieve lift and control while flying.
- Many birds can modify their pinions to adapt to different flying conditions and maneuvers.
- In some species, the pinion can also refer to the bones in the wing that support feathers.
Cultural References
- Pinioned wings are often featured in art to symbolize freedom, as birds soar effortlessly in the sky.
- In literature, wings and pinions symbolize escape and transcendence beyond earthly constraints.
- The song 'Wings' by Birdy metaphorically uses the concept of pinions to express themes of hope and liberation.
Science
- Studies on bird flight have highlighted the importance of pinions in energy-efficient gliding, reducing fatigue.
- The structure of pinions can inspire engineering designs, particularly in aerodynamics, offering insights into flight.
- Ecologists study pinioned species to understand their role in ecosystems and their adaptive evolution.
Literature
- The imagery of pinions often appears in poetry, evoking notions of freedom and the beauty of the natural world.
- Classic novels and stories frequently describe wings, using pinions as symbols of adventure and new beginnings.
- Authors often use the metaphor of pinions to describe characters seeking freedom or escaping restrictions.
Origin of 'pinion'
Main points about word origin
- Originates from the Old French word 'pignon', meaning 'wing' or 'feather'.
- The Latin root 'pinna' translates to 'feather' or 'wing', connecting to the idea of flight.
- This word has been used in English since the 14th century, primarily referring to birds.
The word 'pinion' originates from the Old French word 'pignon', meaning 'wing' or 'feather', which itself is derived from Latin 'pinna', meaning 'feather' or 'wing'. The term has been used in English since the late Middle Ages, referencing both the mechanical component and the anatomical feature in birds. The dual usage underscores the interconnectedness of various forms of movement, whether in mechanics or nature, by highlighting a key component in each process. Over time, 'pinion' has become a specialized term in both engineering and ornithology, important for describing the functionalities related to gears and the anatomy of birds.