Rapson's slide

noun

Rap·​son's slide
ˈrapsənz-
: a device that consists of a crosshead capable of moving in fixed guides and having a pivoted block with a hole in it through which passes a lever hinged at a fixed point outside and that is used as a differential gear for a ship's rudder

Word History

Etymology

after John Rapson, British millwright who patented such a device in 1834

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near Rapson's slide

Cite this Entry

“Rapson's slide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Rapson%27s%20slide. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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