Ferris wheel

noun

Fer·​ris wheel ˈfer-əs- How to pronounce Ferris wheel (audio)
ˈfe-rəs-
: an amusement device consisting of a large upright power-driven wheel carrying seats that remain horizontal around its rim

Examples of Ferris wheel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Gillian's Wonderland Pier, known for its Ferris wheel and roller coaster, closed in October 2024 after 94 years in business. Alicia Roberts, CBS News, 4 Dec. 2025 Wander through 25-plus interactive scenes, larger-than-life snow globes, and a winter carnival complete with a Ferris wheel and rides. Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 26 Nov. 2025 In addition to the small shops, the market boasts an ice rink and a Ferris wheel. Rachel Wolf, FOXNews.com, 20 Nov. 2025 Christmas at the Princess also features a 6,000-square-foot ice rink, a 120-foot-tall Ferris wheel, fire tables and experiences with Santa (until Christmas Eve). Michael Salerno, AZCentral.com, 20 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Ferris wheel

Word History

Etymology

G. W. G. Ferris †1896 American engineer

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Ferris wheel was in 1892

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Cite this Entry

“Ferris wheel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Ferris%20wheel. Accessed 13 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

Ferris wheel

noun
Fer·​ris wheel ˈfer-əs- How to pronounce Ferris wheel (audio)
: an amusement ride consisting of a large vertical wheel that is driven by a motor and has seats around its rim
Etymology

named for G. W. G. Ferris 1859–1896 American engineer

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