Word
sprocket
Phoneticssprock·et, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɹɑkət/
UK/spɹˈɒkɪt/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a small wheel with teeth around its edge that catches a chain and turns to move something. You see them on bikes and motorbikes.
n. a toothed wheel that meshes with a chain or track to transmit rotary motion. Typically paired with a chain drive in bicycles, motorcycles, and industrial machinery.
Examples
“The bike chain moves over the front sprocket.”
“The mechanic replaces the worn rear sprocket so the bicycle shifts smoothly again.”
“Years of grit had worn the teeth of the drive sprocket to sharp points, causing the chain to slip under load on steep climbs.”
Examples
simple
“The bike chain moves over the front sprocket.”
contextual
“The mechanic replaces the worn rear sprocket so the bicycle shifts smoothly again.”
complex
“Years of grit had worn the teeth of the drive sprocket to sharp points, causing the chain to slip under load on steep climbs.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “sprocket” in context.
Verb
01. clean sprocket
“Clean the sprocket regularly to remove dirt and old grease.”
verb + noun
02. inspect sprocket
“Inspect the sprocket for cracks before every long ride.”
verb + noun
03. oil sprocket
“Oil the sprocket lightly after washing the bike.”
verb + noun
04. replace sprocket
“You should replace the sprocket if the teeth look sharp and hooked.”
verb + noun
05. sprocket engages
“The sprocket engages with the chain to drive the rear wheel.”
noun + verb
Adjective
06. front sprocket
“The mechanic checked the front sprocket for wear before the race.”
adj + noun
07. rear sprocket
“He replaced the rear sprocket to get better acceleration uphill.”
adj + noun
08. rusty sprocket
“The old bike had a rusty sprocket that needed cleaning.”
adj + noun
Noun
09. sprocket cover
“Remove the sprocket cover to check for dirt buildup.”
noun + noun
10. sprocket nut
“Tighten the sprocket nut to stop the vibration.”
noun + noun
11. clean and oil the sprocket
“Clean and oil the sprocket after riding in rain or mud.”
12. replace the front sprocket
“The shop had to replace the front sprocket after 5000 km.”
Etymology
Unknown. First attested in the 16th century. Perhaps related to Italian rocchetto (“spool”), spoletta (“spool”), sprone (“spur”), or English spoke, spike, spur.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Related words
Domain
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/sprocket