rotor

noun

ro·​tor ˈrō-tər 

1

a

: a part that revolves in a stationary part

a brake rotor

b

: the rotating member of an electrical machine

2

: an assembly of rotating blades that supplies lift or stability for a rotorcraft

Examples of rotor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In autorotation, the upward flow of wind allows a helicopter's rotor blades to rotate at their normal speed, creating a gliding effect, according to the Federal Aviation Administration safety website. —Violet Ikonomova, Detroit Free Press, 5 July 2024

Controllers will test the helicopter's rotors by adjusting their angles and slowly rotating them. —George Petras, USA TODAY, 5 Feb. 2024

In contrast, eVTOL aircraft use multiple small propellers that spin half as fast as a chopper’s rotor—avoiding the annoying, low-frequency sound pulses created by the big whirling blades. —Steven Ashley, Scientific American, 14 June 2024

Examples of these items include metal bed frames, rotors and appliances. —Claire Reid, Journal Sentinel, 5 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

contraction of rotator

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing rotor

• tilt-rotor

Kids Definition

rotor

noun

ro·​tor ˈrōt-ər 

1

: a part that rotates in a stationary part (as in an electrical machine)

2

: a complete system of rotating blades that support a helicopter in flight