reaction engine

American  

noun

Aeronautics, Rocketry.

1. an engine that produces power as a reaction to the momentum given to gases ejected from it, as a rocket or jet engine.

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reaction engine British  

noun

1. an engine, such as a jet or rocket engine, that ejects gas at high velocity and develops its thrust from the ensuing reaction

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Etymology

Origin of reaction engine

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Out of the port they could see the red flare of a reaction engine; the next ship in their sector, speeding forward.

From The Hour of Battle by Krenkel, Roy G.

This also was the invention of Hero, and was a reaction engine, on the principle of the eolipile.

From History of the Conflict Between Religion and Science by Draper, John William