air bearing

noun

: a bearing that uses pressurized air to eliminate contact and friction between the bearing and the surface of the object being supported or held in place

Air bearings are particularly effective for high rotational speeds and have run at up to 360,000 revs per minute …

—Frank Fahy, Air: The Excellent Canopy, 2009

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

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