Sprockets: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily in mechanical engineering and cycling. Sprockets are a key component of chain mechanisms, transferring motion between parts.

• The bike's sprockets need to be replaced to ensure a smooth ride
• The machine's sprockets are worn out from years of use

Commonly used in mechanical engineering and everyday contexts to describe the entire set of toothed wheels that work together to change the speed or direction of motion. Also used metaphorically to describe levels or phases.

• We need to check the gears before starting the engine
• He shifted gears smoothly while driving
• She's shifting into high gear for the finals

Typically used to refer to individual teeth on a gear or a wheel, or metaphorically to describe a small but important part of a larger system. It often has a negative connotation when describing people.

• He felt like just another cog in the corporate machine
• Each cog in the mechanism must be perfectly aligned

Generally used to refer to a round object that rotates to enable movement, like on a car or a bicycle. It can also metaphorically represent a central part of an operation.

• The wheels on the car need balancing
• He's one of the key wheels in the organization

Sprockets refer to wheels with teeth or cogs, typically used in machinery and equipment that require chain or belt drive systems. These are technical terms mainly used in engineering and mechanics.

• The bicycle's chain slipped off the sprockets
• We need to replace the worn sprockets in the conveyor belt system

Perforation refers to small holes, typically arranged in a line, made to facilitate tearing or separation of materials such as paper or plastic. It is often used in packaging, printing, and materials science.

• Tear along the perforation to open the package
• The stamp has a perforation around the edges

A hole is a general term for an empty space or opening in a solid surface. It can be used in many everyday and technical contexts.

• He drilled a hole in the wall to hang the picture
• There's a hole in my sock

A slot is a long, narrow opening or groove, often used for inserting something. It is common in contexts like electronics, architecture, and machinery.

• Insert the coin into the slot to retrieve your parking ticket
• The batteries slide into a slot in the remote control