# torque

/ˈtɔɹk/ (US) · /tˈɔːk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/torque
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. twisting force

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

a force that causes something to rotate or turn around a point.

For teachers: the rotational equivalent of linear force, measured as the product of the force and the distance from the axis of rotation.

- The engine produces a lot of torque, which helps the car accelerate quickly from a stop.
- The mechanic applied additional torque to the bolt using a longer wrench, ensuring the wheel was securely fastened to the axle assembly.

Usage: Uncountable when referring to the general physical property; countable when referring to a specific measurement.

### 2. ancient necklace

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic

a stiff, twisted metal ring worn around the neck by ancient people.

For teachers: a large neck ring made of twisted metal, typically gold or bronze, worn by ancient Celts and other European peoples.

- The museum displayed a heavy gold torque found in an ancient grave.
- Archaeologists discovered a beautifully preserved silver torque, suggesting the burial site belonged to a high-ranking member of the local tribe.

Usage: Often spelled 'torc' in archaeological contexts.

### 3. to apply twisting force

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

to twist or turn something using force.

For teachers: to apply a rotational force to an object; to cause an object to rotate about an axis.

- You need to torque the screws evenly so the lid fits perfectly.
- The structural engineer specified that each bolt must be torqued to a precise value to maintain the integrity of the bridge span.

Usage: Transitive verb requiring a direct object.

## Examples

- The electric car produces a lot of torque from a standing start.
- You need a wrench with a long handle to apply enough torque to loosen that rusted bolt.
- High-performance diesel engines are prized for their low-end torque, which allows them to pull heavy loads efficiently without needing to reach high revolutions per minute.

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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.