Roller Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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roller
[ˈroʊlər ]
Definitions
sport
A cylindrical object that is used in various sports and games, such as roller skating, rollerblading, and roller hockey. It typically has wheels on the bottom and is used for gliding or moving on a surface.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| roller |
Can also refer to a type of skate that has multiple wheels, used for inline skating.
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| skate |
Generally refers to a shoe with wheels (either inline or quad) or a blade for gliding on ice. Often used in sports or recreational activities.
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| wheel |
A circular object that rotates around an axle, used in various machines and vehicles. Common in daily life references or mechanical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- People enjoy roller skating in the park.
- She fell while rollerblading down the street.
- The players were practicing roller hockey on the rink.
household
A cylindrical tool with a handle that is used for applying paint to walls or other surfaces. It typically has a rolling mechanism that allows for smooth and even distribution of paint.
Synonyms
paint applicator, paint roller.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| roller |
Usually used when specifying is unnecessary, or when speaking about painting in a general sense.
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| paint roller |
Specifically refers to a cylindrical tool used to apply paint evenly on flat surfaces. Standard term in home improvement and painting.
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| paint applicator |
A more technical term that signifies any tool used to apply paint, such as brushes, rollers, or pads. Common in professional or instructional settings.
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Examples of usage
- She used a roller to paint the walls of her room.
- The roller made the painting job much faster and easier.
mechanical
A small rotating cylinder or wheel used in machinery to facilitate movement or reduce friction. It can be found in various mechanical systems and devices.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| roller |
This term is often used to describe a cylindrical tool that helps apply paint or to refer to a piece of equipment in sports or fitness that helps in exercises.
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| wheel |
This term is commonly used to refer to a round object that helps vehicles move. It can also be used in contexts involving machinery, transportation, or cycling.
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| cylinder |
This term is typically used in technical or scientific contexts to describe a solid geometric shape with straight parallel sides and a circular or oval cross-section, or in engineering to refer to a component of an engine.
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Examples of usage
- The roller in the machine helps guide the paper through smoothly.
- The conveyor belt has rollers to assist in transporting items.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Mechanics
- Rollers are crucial in conveyor systems, helping to move goods easily and efficiently.
- They come in various sizes and materials, from small toy wheels to heavy-duty industrial rollers.
- Rollers are also employed in paper-making processes to pull and shape the product during production.
Sports
- Roller skating has been a popular leisure activity since the 18th century and continues to be a competitive sport today.
- Roller derby, a contact sport involving two teams, showcases skills on these wheels and is a growing community-driven event.
- Inline or rollerblading, which evolved from traditional roller skates, provides a faster way to glide on surfaces.
Pop Culture
- Roller coasters are iconic in amusement parks, providing thrilling experiences with loops and high speeds.
- The movie 'Rollerball' portrayed a futuristic sport that combines elements of roller skating with intense competition.
- Roller skates have made appearances in various film and TV settings, often symbolizing freedom and fun.
Art and Music
- Rollers are often used in printing techniques, such as lithography, to transfer images onto materials.
- In dance, roller disco combines skating with disco music, creating a vibrant blend of movement and music.
- Many artists use paint rollers to create large murals, making art accessible and fun for everyone.
Origin of 'roller'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English term 'rollen,' which means to roll.
- It evolved from the Old French word 'roler,' highlighting its smooth, circular movement.
- Initially, 'roller' referred to various cylindrical objects used in mechanics and manufacturing.
The term 'roller' originated in the late 18th century, derived from the verb 'roll'. It initially referred to a cylinder used for rolling or crushing materials. Over time, the term expanded to include various cylindrical objects used in different contexts, such as sports, painting, and machinery. The concept of rollers has evolved to play a significant role in everyday life, providing ease and efficiency in diverse applications.
See also: enrol, enroll, roll, rollerblader, rolling, rollout, unroll, unrolled.