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worm gear

or wormgear

noun

  1. a mechanism consisting of a worm engaging with and driving a worm wheel, the two axes usually being at right angles, used where a relatively low speed and a relatively large amplification of power are desired.
  2. Also called worm wheel. a gear wheel driven by a worm.


worm gear

noun

  1. a device consisting of a threaded shaft ( worm ) that mates with a gearwheel ( worm wheel ) so that rotary motion can be transferred between two shafts at right angles to each other
  2. Also calledworm wheel a gearwheel driven by a threaded shaft or worm
“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
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Word History and Origins

Origin of worm gear1

First recorded in 1875–80
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Example Sentences

The motion obtained from the worm gear is transferred through suitable gearing to the rack pinion.

The chain drive also allows the replacement of the sprocket with one of a larger or smaller diameter thereby giving a higher or lower gear ratio, which cannot be done with the worm gear.

And by means of a worm gear, operated by a wheel near the steering apparatus, the light could be deflected in any direction.

The two knobs with drum are mounted on an axle a, which in its central portion is enlarged and provided with a worm gear.

The rod is attached to the gage with a worm gear and is operated by a small hand wheel at the front of the table.

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