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

Lockheed Martin revealed that the new X-rotor also benefits from the same family of high-power microwave effectors that have already proved the ability to defeat difficult targets while minimizing collateral damage. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 20 July 2026

The other drone appears to be a larger six-rotor, Baba Yaga-style platform, a reusable drone capable of carrying multiple munitions. — Vikram Mittal, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Following the crash, investigators were able to recover the helicopter’s fuselage, which included the engine, the main rotor system, the tail boom. — Paloma Chavez, PEOPLE, 17 July 2026

Today, many technicians recommend replacing rotors rather than resurfacing them. — John Paul Senior Manager Public Affairs and Traffic Safety Aaa Northeast, Hartford Courant, 11 July 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