escapement

noun

es·​cape·​ment i-ˈskāp-mənt 

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 (such 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

Illustration of escapement

• escapement 1a

Examples of escapement in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The high-frequency (10 Hz) tourbillon, which features a magnetic escapement with constant force delivered to the balance, beats at a blistering rate of 10 Hz, or 72,000 vph. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 31 Dec. 2025

There were innovations such as Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak RD#5, with its thin case, tourbillon and ultra-easy chronograph pushers, plus Breguet’s magnetic escapement in its avant-garde Expérimentale 1. —Chris Rovzar, Bloomberg, 29 Dec. 2025

Managing escapement throughout the season for future fruitful harvests is sustainability. —Andrew Watman, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1779, in the meaning defined at sense 1a