heat engine

noun

, Thermodynamics.

1. a mechanical device designed to transform part of the heat entering it into work.

heat engine

noun

1. an engine that converts heat energy into mechanical energy

Word History and Origins

Origin of heat engine¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

For instance, if you have this general statement that perpetual motion machines are impossible, you can combine it with other statements about other tasks being possible or not and work out that a heat engine is possible.

From Quanta Magazine

The research might one day lead to improved efficiency of microscopic heat engines and motors.

From Ars Technica

The efficiency of any form of heat engine is determined by the power obtained from a certain fuel consumption.

From Project Gutenberg

You have to have a fall of temperature to run any kind of heat engine.

From Project Gutenberg

But during the centuries of experiments with a "heat-engine," the political world had greatly changed.

From Project Gutenberg

Considered as a heat engine, the gas engine is now twice as efficient as the very best modern steam engine.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus it appears that we have been able to show by very definite experimental evidence that the radiometer is a heat engine.

From Project Gutenberg