Rotary
ˈroʊtəri
Definitions
2 meaningsMoving or operating in a circle around a central point; characterized by or using rotation.
ˈroʊtəri
Involving or characterized by rotation.
The rotary blade on the lawnmower cuts the grass efficiently.
💡 Simply: Imagine a merry-go-round! It goes around and around, and that kind of movement is called rotary. It's like how a car's tires turn to make it move.
👶 For kids: Going around and around in a circle!
More Examples
A rotary dial phone was common before the age of smartphones.
The rotary motion of the engine creates power.
How It's Used
"The rotary engine provides a smooth power output."
"The rotary switch controls the fan speed."
A device or machine using a rotary mechanism.
ˈroʊtəri
A type of device or mechanism that rotates.
The factory uses a rotary machine for cutting paper.
💡 Simply: It's a thing that turns around, like the dial on an old telephone. Think of something designed to spin or turn, and it can be called rotary.
👶 For kids: Something that turns around and around.
More Examples
The old telephone used a rotary dial to select numbers.
The rotary tool can be used for different projects.
How It's Used
"The printer uses a rotary cutting mechanism."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Rotary club
A global organization of business and professional leaders providing humanitarian service and promoting goodwill.
"She volunteered regularly at the local Rotary Club."
From Medieval Latin *rotatorius*, from Latin *rotare* ("to rotate"), from *rota* ("wheel").
The term 'rotary' has been used since the late 17th century, initially to describe circular motion and mechanisms.
Memory tip
Think of a Ferris wheel – it has a rotary motion.