throttle

²throttle

noun

Definition of THROTTLE

1

a : throat 1a b : trachea 1

2

a : a valve for regulating the supply of a fluid (as steam) to an engine; especially : the valve controlling the volume of vaporized fuel charge delivered to the cylinders of an internal combustion engine b : the lever controlling this valve c : the condition of being throttled

— at full throttle

: at full speed <the project is proceeding at full throttle>

Examples of THROTTLE

1. When you press a car's accelerator, it opens the throttle, and the car goes faster.

Origin of THROTTLE

perhaps from Middle English *throtel, diminutive of throte throat

First Known Use: circa 1547

Other Automotive Terms

articulated, block, choke, clutch, diesel, neutral, transmission

Rhymes with THROTTLE

bottle, mottle, wattle