rotary engine

noun

1. an engine, as a turbine, in which the impelling fluid produces torque directly rather than by acting upon reciprocating parts.
2. a revolving radial engine.

rotary engine

noun

1. an internal-combustion engine having radial cylinders that rotate about a fixed crankshaft
2. an engine, such as a turbine or wankel engine, in which power is transmitted directly to rotating components

Word History and Origins

Origin of rotary engine¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Mazda said that its prized rotary engine, introduced more than 50 years ago, was being adapted for electric vehicles.

From Seattle Times

The automaker’s Chinese arm posted a cryptic message to the Weibo social media platform on September 20 that suggests a new rotary engine is on the way.

From Fox News

On Tuesday it said it would develop two battery EVs, one which will be powered solely by battery and another which will pair a battery with a range extender powered by the automaker’s rotary engine.

From Reuters

And the ubiquitous, flat-bottomed paper bag was patented in 1871 by Margaret Knight, who went on to get 86 other patents in areas as varied as shoemaking and the rotary engine.

From Scientific American

When he wasn’t looking for a job, Bruce worked on inventions—for 17 years on a design for a rotary engine that contained only three moving parts.

From Time