English Explanatory Dictionary

escapement

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The linkage in a (watch) that gives impulses to the timekeeping element and periodically releases the gear train to move forward, advancing the clock's hands.
  2. A mechanism found in devices such as a typewriter or printer which controls lateral motion of the carriage.
  3. An escape or a means of escape.
  4. The number of fish that escape commercial fishing operations and travel upstream to spawn.

Pronunciation

/ɪˈskeɪpmənt/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-escapement.wav LL-Q1860 (eng)-Flame, not lame-escapement.wav

Word forms

escapement escapements

Etymology

From escape + -ment. The watch component is so called because it allows a tooth to escape from a pallet at each vibration.

Derived words

anchor escapement cross-beat escapement deadbeat escapement duplex escapement Galileo's escapement lever escapement pin wheel escapement Riefler escapement verge escapement
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