Crankshaft Meaning
/krˈæˌŋkʃæft/Definition, CEFR level B2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounA rotating shaft with throws (parts that stick out) and which drives, is driven by (cranked by), or functions as a crank.
verbTo deform in such a manner that part of the rod or bolt is displaced sideways, offset from the longitudinal axis of the part, but remains parallel with the part's main longitudinal axis, with the final shape somewhat resembling a crankshaft.
Sentence Examples
As I turned the handle of the crankshaft, the old tractor sputtered to life.
The crankshaft is broken.
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CEFR Practice Quiz
The engine's ____ converts piston motion into rotational energy.
Word Origin & History
From crank + shaft.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"The attachment of the inboard end of the gear beam was damaged but remained intact; the drag strut fuse pin had 'crankshafted' in a direction indicating that a load had been applied in tension but this had also remained intact."
— 2010 February 9, Air Accidents Investigation Branch, “1.12.3.3 Landing gear examination”, in Report on the accident to Boeing 777-236ER, G-YMMM, at London Heathrow Airport on 17 January 2008, archived from the original on 16 Jun 2022, page 44:
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CEFR Practice Quiz
The engine's ____ converts piston motion into rotational energy.