rotary

1 of 2

adjective

ro·​ta·​ry ˈrō-tə-rē 

1

a

: turning on an axis like a wheel

b

: taking place about an axis

rotary motion

2

: having an important part that turns on an axis

rotary cutter

3

: characterized by rotation

4

: of, relating to, or being a press in which paper is printed by rotation in contact with a curved printing surface attached to a cylinder

rotary

2 of 2

noun

plural rotaries

1

: a rotary machine

2

: a road junction formed around a central circle about which traffic moves in one direction only

called also circle, roundabout, traffic circle

Examples of rotary in a Sentence

Adjective

the rotary action of the wheel

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The joystick of the device can be used for navigation, while the rotary dial adjusts an AI agent’s reasoning level. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 15 July 2026

Included with the left/right buttons is a middle button located in the center of the rotary wheel that can be activated by pressing to generate a click. — Shirl Leigh july 12, New Atlas, 12 July 2026

Noun

The buttons, switches and rotary controls also have a satisfying action, avoiding the flimsy feel that can undermine an otherwise attractive economy-car interior. — Karl Brauer, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

Chouinard says low-precipitation rotary nozzles, such as MP Rotators, are the clear winners. — The Spruce, 20 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Medieval Latin rotarius, from Latin rota wheel

First Known Use

Adjective

1704, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1836, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rotary

• rotary cultivator
• rotary engine
• rotary-wing aircraft

Rhymes for rotary

• coterie
• notary
• votary
• prothonotary

Kids Definition

rotary

1 of 2 adjective

ro·​ta·​ry ˈrōt-ə-rē 

1

a

: turning on an axis like a wheel

a rotary blade

b

: taking place about an axis

rotary motion

2

: having a rotating part

a rotary lawn mower

rotary

2 of 2 noun

plural rotaries

1

: a rotary machine

2

: a road junction formed around a central circle about which traffic moves in one direction only