freewheel

1 of 2

noun

free·​wheel ˈfrē-ˈ(h)wēl How to pronounce freewheel (audio)
: a clutch fitted in the rear hub of a bicycle that permits the rear wheel to run on free from the rear sprocket when the pedals are stopped

freewheel

2 of 2

verb

freewheeled; freewheeling; freewheels

intransitive verb

1
: to roll along freely independent of a gear
2
: to move, live, or play freely or irresponsibly
freewheeler noun

Examples of freewheel 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.
Noun
On the other side, the spokes meet the axle slightly off-center, while the gears (and the freewheel that allows them to rotate freely in only one direction) take up the space between there and the frame. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 10 Nov. 2018
Verb
The connecting web of relationships, motives and money can be dizzying, especially with the freewheeling geographic and temporal jumps, and the middle of The Accountant 2 meanders. Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 9 Mar. 2025 Rodgers, 41, discusses freewheeling topics during a weekly appearance on an ESPN television show hosted by Pat McAfee, a former N.F.L. player. Emmanuel Morgan, New York Times, 17 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for freewheel

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1899, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1899, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of freewheel was in 1899

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Cite this Entry

“Freewheel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/freewheel. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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