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

The Gnome rotary engine was first used with success at this meeting.

From Project Gutenberg

The first steam engine invented by Hero was a rotary engine, but it was of course, most uneconomical of steam.

From Project Gutenberg

In the Gnome rotary engine the lightness is entirely due to the initial design and to the materials employed in manufacture.

From Project Gutenberg

It has recently become common to construct the steam fire-engine with rotary engine and pump (Fig. 122).

From Project Gutenberg

These advantages adapt the rotary engine, in an especial manner, to the driving of a locomotive or steam fire-engine.

From Project Gutenberg