# rev

/ˈɹɛv/ (US) · /ɹˈɛv/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rev
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. engine revolution

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

one full turn of an engine part; usually used in the plural to talk about engine speed.

For teachers: a single complete turn of a motor or engine part, typically measured per minute to indicate rotational speed.

- The driver kept the revs high as he prepared to overtake the truck.
- The mechanic noticed that the engine was struggling to maintain consistent revs while idling, suggesting a potential issue with the fuel injection system.

Usage: Almost always used in the plural form 'revs' when referring to engine performance.

### 2. to speed up an engine

verb · CEFR B2 · Informal

to make an engine run faster, especially by pressing the gas pedal while the car is not moving.

For teachers: to increase the running speed of an engine, often while the vehicle is stationary or the clutch is disengaged.

- He revved the engine a few times to warm it up on the cold morning.
- The motorcyclist revved his engine impatiently at the red light, creating a deafening roar that echoed through the narrow street.

Usage: Often used with the particle 'up' as in 'to rev up'.

## Examples

- The engine makes a loud noise at high revs.
- You should change gears when the engine reaches a certain number of revs to avoid damage.
- The driver kept the revs high while waiting for the green light, ensuring the car would accelerate instantly the moment the race began.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.