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

Available product information also identifies hydraulic disc braking, although detailed rotor and caliper specifications remain limited. — New Atlas, 2 Nov. 2026

This inertia can come in handy if the engine dies, because the rotor will continue to spin and allow the pilot to descend under control, in an emergency technique known as autorotation. — IEEE Spectrum, 28 Oct. 2026

The witnesses described an object with no visible engines, rotors, exhaust or other conventional aircraft features. — Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026

The company advertises a 100-mile range and a top speed of 150mph for Midnight, which flies on 12 rotors. — Rob Pegoraro, PC Magazine, 19 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

contraction of rotator

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing rotor

• tilt-rotor

Rhymes for rotor

• boater
• coater
• floater
• motor
• voter
• locomotor
• psychomotor
• servomotor
• vasomotor
• oculomotor
• sensorimotor
• premotor

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