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
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.
Snowfall: None 1893: Visitors to the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago got to ride the debut of the first Ferris wheel, which was designed by George W. Ferris. Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2025 The group rode Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Pixar Pal-A-Round (the 150-foot-tall Ferris wheel); played several carnival-style games; and built custom lightsabers at Savi's Workshop in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Greta Cross, USA Today, 10 June 2025 Rides and games The fair’s Fun Zone will feature a full complement of rides and games for adults, including two Ferris wheels, the Zipper, an aerial swings ride, the Slingshot, Skyliner, Super Shot, Tango, Thunderbird and Raptor Coaster. Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 May 2025 The county’s southern portion of I-Drive, meanwhile, includes more eating and entertainment options, the 400-foot high Orlando Eye Ferris wheel, higher-end hotels, the Orange County Convention Center and SeaWorld’s theme parks. Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 May 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 25 Jun. 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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