rotary engine

noun

1
: any of various engines (such as a turbine) in which power is applied to vanes or similar parts constrained to move in a circular path
2
: a radial engine in which the cylinders revolve about a stationary crankshaft

Examples of rotary engine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The engine itself features a novel design that's kind of like an inside-out Wankel rotary engine, and delivers a jaw-dropping power density of up to 1.5 horsepower per pound. New Atlas, 24 Sep. 2024 Every 4-stroke engine ever made – about 80% of all engines currently in existence – function on this principle – even rotary engines. New Atlas, 19 Sep. 2024 The Tomahawk also seeks to solve some of the weaknesses of the Wankel rotary engine, which was once touted as a competitor to the piston engine. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 6 June 2024 Executives said Tuesday the company is developing two small rotary engines that can burn different green fuels and be paired with hybrid setups, Automotive News reports. William Gavin, Quartz, 28 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for rotary engine 

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rotary engine was in 1799

Dictionary Entries Near rotary engine

Cite this Entry

“Rotary engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rotary%20engine. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on rotary engine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!