Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Showing results for gearbox. Search instead for gear+box.
Synonyms

gearbox

American  
[geer-boks] / ˈgɪərˌbɒks /
Or gear box

noun

  1. a transmission, as in an automobile.

  2. a shield or housing for gears.


gearbox British  
/ ˈɡɪəˌbɒks /

noun

  1. the metal casing within which a train of gears is sealed

  2. this metal casing and its contents, esp in a motor vehicle

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of gearbox

First recorded in 1885–90; gear + box 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Stranded out on track with a gearbox malfunction, he made it back to the pits where the team rushed to fix a problem they could not identify.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

Interfering with molecular systems like the T9SS gearbox could also prevent bacteria from moving and from releasing harmful proteins that contribute to disease.

From Science Daily • Mar. 13, 2026

Understanding how this molecular gearbox works could help researchers develop ways to stop bacteria from forming biofilms, slimy communities that cause infections and contaminate medical devices.

From Science Daily • Mar. 13, 2026

Are any of the top three drivers in danger of a grid penalty for changing engine, gearbox etc?

From BBC • Nov. 25, 2025

He told me it was unlike any car on the market, and that new features of gearbox, ignition, and engine design would certainly stamp it a winner if no bad luck overtook him.

From The Man Who Drove the Car by Pemberton, Max, Sir