crankshaft

[ krangk-shaft, -shahft ]

noun

, Machinery.

1. a shaft having one or more cranks, crank, usually formed as integral parts.

crankshaft

/ ˈkræŋkˌʃɑːft /

noun

1. a shaft having one or more cranks, esp the main shaft of an internal-combustion engine to which the connecting rods are attached

Word History and Origins

Origin of crankshaft¹

First recorded in 1850–55; crank ¹ + shaft

Example Sentences

In a traditional race car, anti-lag works by adjusting the engine’s timing, which is where spark and fuel ignite in relation to the rotation of the crankshaft.

From Popular-Science

As a result of all this, an engine with a crossplane crankshaft is better stabilized and has decreased noise, vibration, and harshness.

From Popular-Science

Crankpins are evenly spaced along the length of the crankshaft—one crankpin for each cylinder.

From Popular-Science

Heavier rotational mass means a less responsive engine, and a larger crankshaft means less compact engine packaging.

From Popular-Science

While this might just look like any other V8, its flat-plane crankshaft makes all the difference.

From Popular-Science

Now motor car engines of whatever type, and whether water-cooled or air-cooled, had fixed cylinders and a revolving crankshaft.

From Project Gutenberg

The piston rod transmits the power to the crankshaft, a long rotating piece of steel.

From Project Gutenberg

Cast-iron pistons are used, and are connected to the crankshaft in the same manner as with the Gnome and Le Rhone engines.

From Project Gutenberg

The crankshaft carried a pinion gearing with an internally toothed wheel on the transmission shaft which carried the air-screw.

From Project Gutenberg

Lubrication was by means of two pumps, one scavenging and one suction, oil being fed under pressure from the crankshaft.

From Project Gutenberg