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freewheel

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noun free·wheel \ˈfrē-ˈ(h)wēl\

Definition of freewheel

  1. :  a clutch fitted in the rear hub of a bicycle that permits the rear wheel to run on free from the rear sprocket when the pedals are stopped

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2

freewheel

verb free·wheel

Definition of freewheel

  1. intransitive verb

  2. 1 :  to roll along freely independent of a gear

  3. 2 :  to move, live, or play freely or irresponsibly

freewheeler

noun

1899

First Known Use of freewheel

1899

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