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worm gear

 - 2 dictionary results

worm gear

–noun
1. a mechanism consisting of a worm engaging with and driving a worm wheel, the two axes usually being at right angles, used where a relatively low speed and a relatively large amplification of power are desired.
2. Also called worm wheel. a gear wheel driven by a worm.
Also, wormgear.


Origin:
1875–80
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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worm gear  


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n.  
  1. A gear consisting of a spirally threaded shaft and a wheel with marginal teeth that mesh into it.

  2. The toothed wheel of this gear; a worm wheel.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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