Main Entry: es·cape·ment

Pronunciation: \is-ˈkāp-mənt\

Function: noun

Date: 1779

1 a : a device in a timepiece which controls the motion of the train of wheelwork and through which the energy of the power source is delivered to the pendulum or balance by means of impulses that permit a tooth to escape from a pallet at regular intervals b : a ratchet device (as the spacing mechanism of a typewriter) that permits motion in one direction only in equal steps
2 a : the act of escaping b : a way of escape : vent

[escapement illustration]