inclined plane

noun

1. one of the simple machines, a plane surface inclined inclined to the horizon, or forming with a horizontal plane any angle but a right angle. Compare machine ( def 4b ).
2. incline ( def 10a ).

inclined plane

noun

1. a plane whose angle to the horizontal is less than a right angle

inclined plane

/ ĭn′klīnd′ /

1. A plane surface, such as a ramp or a blade, set at an acute angle to a horizontal surface, a direction of motion, or a direction of force. Inclined planes are used to increase the distance over which work is done, reducing the amount of force needed to impart energy to a system. Rolling a car up a hill, for example, requires less force than lifting it straight up off the ground. Many tools, such as the ax, wedge, chisel, and highway ramp, exploit the mechanical properties of the inclined plane.

Word History and Origins

Origin of inclined plane¹

First recorded in 1700–10

Example Sentences

Hence the latter is not level, but has, in places, steps which have been worn to an inclined plane.

From Project Gutenberg

Some clocks are still made with a small ball, or bullet on an inclined plane, which turns every minute.

From Project Gutenberg

From the suspension bridge, below the Falls, you have an inclined plane of troubled waters.

From Project Gutenberg

Ox mills on an inclined plane, and horse mills by draught, are common through the country.

From Project Gutenberg

The body of the person to be reflected is against an inclined plane, which is covered with black cloth.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• level