differential gear

noun

, Machinery.

1. differential ( def 7 ).
2. any of various comparable arrangements of gears, as an epicyclic train.

differential gear

noun

1. the epicyclic gear mounted in the driving axle of a road vehicle that permits one driving wheel to rotate faster than the other, as when cornering

Word History and Origins

Origin of differential gear¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

They also developed ball bearings, pneumatic tyres, differential gears and brakes.

From BBC

The work W is a casing for the differential gears of an automobile.

From Project Gutenberg

The large set-screws holding the two halves of the rear-axle in the differential gears had worked loose and the right half was steadily working out.

From Project Gutenberg

In a rear-steerer which has not an open front, whether driven by a clutch or by differential gear, I fail to discover any good quality.

From Project Gutenberg

"The nuts firm, the brakes in order, the sprockets running true with the differential gear?"

From Project Gutenberg