MacPherson strut

noun

Mac·​Pher·​son strut mək-ˈfir-sᵊn- How to pronounce MacPherson strut (audio) -ˈfər- How to pronounce MacPherson strut (audio)
: a component of an automobile suspension consisting of a shock absorber mounted within a coil spring

Examples of MacPherson strut 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.
Body roll was imperceptible at somewhat respectful public road speeds, too, thanks to adaptive dampers bolted up to a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. Peter Nelson, Ars Technica, 1 June 2024 The chassis changes were mostly refinement of the various elastomeric components, bushings and such, in the MacPherson strut front/multi-link rear. Dan Neil, WSJ, 7 Oct. 2021 Honda gave the front MacPherson strut suspension new low-friction ball joints and damper mounts to improve steering feel and return to center. Mark Phelan, Detroit Free Press, 29 Apr. 2021

Word History

Etymology

Earle S. MacPherson †1960 American engineer

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of MacPherson strut was in 1960

Dictionary Entries Near MacPherson strut

Cite this Entry

“MacPherson strut.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/MacPherson%20strut. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

MacPherson strut

noun
Mac·​Pher·​son strut mək-ˈfir-sᵊn- How to pronounce MacPherson strut (audio) -ˈfər- How to pronounce MacPherson strut (audio)
: a component of an automobile suspension consisting of a shock absorber mounted within a coil spring
Etymology

named after Earle S. MacPherson, 1891–1960, American engineer who designed the strut

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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