rotor

noun

ro·​tor ˈrō-tər How to pronounce rotor (audio)
1
a
: a part that revolves in a stationary part
a brake rotor
b
: the rotating member of an electrical machine
2
: an assembly of rotating blades that supplies lift or stability for a rotorcraft

Examples of rotor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Divers will return to the waters on Sunday to continue the search for the helicopter’s main rotor and assembly gear box, a key piece that could provide crucial insights into what caused the incident, Schumer said. Alaa Elassar, CNN Money, 13 Apr. 2025 According to Schumer, rescue divers were continuing to search for the helicopter’s main rotor and assembly gear box, which would give clues about what happened. Jake Offenhartz, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2025 The Associated Press reports that in New York City alone 38 people have died in helicopter crashes since 1977, when five people were killed after a rotor broke loose while a helicopter was attempting to land on the Pan Am Building (now called the MetLife Building). David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025 Moments after a rotor can be seen falling detached from the aircraft itself. Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 11 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rotor

Word History

Etymology

contraction of rotator

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of rotor was in 1892

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rotor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rotor. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

rotor

noun
ro·​tor ˈrōt-ər How to pronounce rotor (audio)
1
: a part that rotates in a stationary part (as in an electrical machine)
2
: a complete system of rotating blades that support a helicopter in flight

More from Merriam-Webster on rotor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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