derailleur

noun

de·rail·leur | \ di-ˈrā-lər

Definition of derailleur

: a mechanism for shifting gears on a bicycle that operates by moving the chain from one set of exposed gears to another

Examples of derailleur in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

If the cables are adjusted properly, the derailleur that moves the chain between gears would be lined up perfectly on one of them. — John Timmer, Ars Technica, "How bicycles have changed in the last 25 years," 10 Nov. 2018 The village spent $1,300 to purchase a Fixit, which includes all the tools necessary to perform basic bike repairs and maintenance, such as fixing a flat tire to adjusting brakes and derailleur gears, along with a heavy-duty air pump. — Chuck Fieldman, chicagotribune.com, "Clarendon Hills to put bicycle repair station at Metra stop," 9 Jan. 2018 Superstar Peter Sagan stayed upright, but his chain jammed into his front derailleur and needed servicing. — Blair Anthony Robertson, sacbee.com, "Local cyclist is “U.S. handyman” for European pro team," 11 May 2017 Though materials and build play a part in the Ajax’s silent operation, the main reasons are the 8-speed internal hub and belt drive at the heart of the bike’s derailleur-free drivetrain. — John Bradley, WIRED, "Review: Spot Ajax," 21 Apr. 2011

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'derailleur.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.