# sprocket

/ˈspɹɑkət/ (US) · /spɹˈɒkɪt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sprocket
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

a small wheel with teeth around its edge that catches a chain and turns to move something. You see them on bikes and motorbikes.

For teachers: 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.

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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.