shock absorber

noun

, Machinery.

1. a device for damping sudden and rapid motion, as the recoil of a spring-mounted object from shock.

shock absorber

noun

1. any device designed to absorb mechanical shock, esp one fitted to a motor vehicle to damp the recoil of the suspension springs

Word History and Origins

Origin of shock absorber¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

The fatal July 29 rollover, west of the historic ghost town of Liberty, occurred after the ATV’s front-side shock absorber failed, causing one corner of its suspension to collapse and crash into the ground nose-first, according to the lawsuit.

From Seattle Times

The researchers noted in the study that alfalfa is also attractive to growers for other reasons, including its hardiness and ability to survive with less water during droughts and then come back quickly once full irrigation resumes — functioning like a “shock absorber” for farmers dealing with unpredictable conditions.

From Los Angeles Times

These findings also call for revising the role of molecular unfolding, updating the traditional view that it functions as a mechanosensor and a shock absorber when molecules unfold under external force.

From Science Daily

The oligoethylene glycol units act as a type of shock absorber that adjusts to the appropriate length to make certain the shapes can fit together in a near-perfect manner.

From Science Daily

The meniscus is a crescent-shaped rubbery disc of cartilage that serves as a shock absorber on the inside and outer edges of the knee.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• suspension system