rotary engine

noun

1
: any of various engines (such as a turbine) in which power is applied to vanes or similar parts constrained to move in a circular path
2
: a radial engine in which the cylinders revolve about a stationary crankshaft

Examples of rotary engine 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.
Impressively aerodynamic, the Ro 80’s long wheelbase, spacious greenhouse, and elegant shape were enabled by the use of Felix Wankel’s compact rotary engine. Raphael Orlove, Robb Report, 27 Feb. 2025 The engine itself features a novel design that's kind of like an inside-out Wankel rotary engine, and delivers a jaw-dropping power density of up to 1.5 horsepower per pound. New Atlas, 24 Sep. 2024 The Tomahawk also seeks to solve some of the weaknesses of the Wankel rotary engine, which was once touted as a competitor to the piston engine. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 6 June 2024 Mazda will focus on improving its rotary engines to run on different carbon-neutral fuels. William Gavin, Quartz, 28 May 2024 See All Example Sentences for rotary engine

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rotary engine was in 1799

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Cite this Entry

“Rotary engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rotary%20engine. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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