fusee

noun

fu·see | \ fyü-ˈzē

Definition of fusee

1 : a conical spirally grooved pulley in a timepiece from which a cord or chain unwinds onto a cylinder containing the mainspring and which by its increasing diameter compensates for the lessening power of the spring

2 : a red signal flare used especially for protecting stalled trains and trucks

Examples of fusee in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Also visible through the caseback, is the fusee-and-chain transmission, an ultra-complex and very hard-to-make solution for providing a constant force escapement that was common during this brand’s namesake founder’s heyday. — Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 3 Sep. 2021

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

History and Etymology for fusee

borrowed from French fusée "mass of thread around a spindle, explosive fuse, rocket, fusee in a timepiece," going back to Old French fusee "mass of thread around a spindle," from fus "spindle" (going back to Latin fūsus, of obscure origin) + -ee, suffix of association or containment, going back to Late Latin -āta (going back to Latin, feminine of -ātus -ate entry 3)

Note: In the later Middle Ages, French fusée designated a kind of rudimentary gunpowder-filled projectile, apparently resembling thread wound around a spindle—hence the later application to fuses, fireworks, etc.

Buying Guide

Passionate about fitness and wellness tracking? The Reviews team conducted an honest review of the Oura Ring.