rotary engine

noun

: 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

: 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

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Rotary engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rotary%20engine. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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