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Rotational Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rotational

[หŒrษ™สŠหˆteษชสƒษ™nl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

physics

Relating to rotation or revolving around an axis.

Synonyms

revolving, rotary, spinning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rotational

Used to describe objects or systems that turn around a central point. Often utilized in technical and scientific contexts.

  • The rotational speed of the wind turbine was increasing
  • Engineers studied the rotational motion of the planet
rotary

Generally describes machines or parts of machines that turn around a central point. Often used in mechanical and engineering contexts.

  • A rotary engine is common in some types of vehicles
  • The dentist used a rotary tool to clean my teeth
spinning

Describes objects turning rapidly around a central axis. It's often used in everyday conversations and can refer to both literal and figurative spinning.

  • The children were spinning around in circles
  • After the surprise, her head was spinning with excitement
revolving

Refers to something that turns around a central point, often continuously and does not imply a technical aspect necessarily. Commonly used in everyday language.

  • The revolving door at the entrance kept spinning
  • She loved watching the revolving carousel at the fair

Examples of usage

  • The Earth has a rotational motion around its own axis.
  • The spinning wheel has a rotational speed of 500 revolutions per minute.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

A type of movement or exercise that involves rotating or twisting the body.

Synonyms

rotary, turning, twisting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rotational

Best used in scientific or technical settings to describe motion around an axis or center point.

  • The earth's rotational motion affects the length of a day
  • Engineers studied the rotational dynamics of the machinery
twisting

Describes a spiraling or contorting motion, often involving applying force to change shape; can carry a negative connotation if related to deformation or causing discomfort.

  • He is twisting the cap off the bottle
  • The rope started twisting under the pressure of the heavy load
turning

Used in everyday language to describe the act of changing direction or rotating something slightly.

  • She is turning the doorknob to open the door
  • The car is turning left at the intersection
rotary

Commonly used in mechanical contexts where parts move in a circular manner, often in machinery or tools.

  • He used a rotary tool to polish the metal
  • The rotary engine design is compact and efficient

Examples of usage

  • Pilates includes various rotational exercises to strengthen the core muscles.
  • The golfer practiced his rotational swing to improve his game.
Context #3 | Noun

mechanics

A type of force that causes an object to rotate around an axis.

Synonyms

rotary force, torque, twisting force.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rotational

Commonly refers to any motion around a center or axis. It's used in physics, engineering, and everyday contexts to describe spinning or circular movement.

  • The rotational speed of the Earth affects the length of our days.
  • Rotational motion is a key concept in mechanics.
torque

Describes the twisting force that causes rotation, measured in units like Newton-meters. It's heavily used in physics and mechanical engineering.

  • The torque required to turn the bolt was higher than expected.
  • A car's engine generates torque to turn the wheels.
rotary force

Refers specifically to the force that causes or is associated with rotary motion. It is typically used in mechanics and engineering.

  • The rotary force generated by the engine drives the wheels.
  • A gyroscope uses rotary force to maintain orientation.
twisting force

Similar to 'torque', it describes a force that causes an object to twist or rotate. Itโ€™s a more general term and can be used in everyday language as well as in technical contexts.

  • The twisting force on the rubber band caused it to snap.
  • Engineers measured the twisting force applied to the beam.

Examples of usage

  • The torque applied to the bolt created a rotational movement.
  • The rotational force of the motor caused the gears to turn.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, rotational motion describes objects that spin around an axis, such as planets or wheels.
  • Rotational dynamics studies how forces affect an object's spinning, much like figure skaters who spin faster by pulling their arms in.
  • The Earth rotates on its axis every 24 hours, giving us day and night.

Technology

  • Rotational mechanisms are vital in engineering, found in engines, motors, and generators.
  • In video games, 3D graphics often use rotational transformations to make characters turn and move realistically.
  • Autonomous robots often use rotational sensors to gauge their position as they navigate their environment.

Sports

  • In baseball, the rotational speed of a baseball can affect its trajectory, influencing how it travels through the air.
  • Gymnastics and diving involve rotational movements as athletes spin in the air before landing.
  • Cycling involves rotational mechanics in the wheels, affecting speed and stability.

Art

  • In visual art, rotational symmetry can create captivating designs, as seen in mandalas.
  • Sculptures can convey movement through rotational dynamics, capturing the idea of motion in still form.
  • Artists often use concepts of rotation in kinetic art, where sculptures move and change form.

Origin of 'rotational'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'rotatio', meaning 'a turning' or 'a revolution'.
  • In the 19th century, this term became widely used in physics to describe circular movements.
  • Related words include 'rotate', which also refers to turning around an axis.

The word 'rotational' originates from the Latin word 'rotatio', which means 'a turning around'. The concept of rotation has been fundamental in various fields such as physics, mechanics, and sports. The term has evolved to describe movements, forces, and exercises involving rotation or revolving around an axis. Through its usage in different contexts, 'rotational' has become a versatile adjective and noun, highlighting the importance of rotational motion in diverse applications.

See also: rotating, rotatingly, rotation.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #10,000 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.