Word
flywheel
Phoneticsfly·wheel, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈfɫaɪˌwiɫ/
UK/flˈaɪwiːl/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a heavy wheel that spins inside a machine to keep it moving smoothly. It stores energy so the machine doesn't stop when the power goes out.
n. a mechanical device used to store rotational energy and provide a smooth, continuous output of power. It consists of a heavy wheel with a large moment of inertia, designed to maintain momentum during fluctuations in the power source.
Examples
“The flywheel helps the engine run more smoothly.”
“In a steam engine, the flywheel ensures that the pistons continue moving even when the pressure drops between cycles.”
“Modern hybrid vehicles often use a flywheel to capture kinetic energy during braking, which is then released to assist the engine during acceleration, improving overall fuel efficiency.”
Examples
simple
“The flywheel helps the engine run more smoothly.”
contextual
“In a steam engine, the flywheel ensures that the pistons continue moving even when the pressure drops between cycles.”
complex
“Modern hybrid vehicles often use a flywheel to capture kinetic energy during braking, which is then released to assist the engine during acceleration, improving overall fuel efficiency.”
Etymology
From fly + wheel.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/flywheel