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

Braking is handled by dual-piston hydraulic calipers clamping down on large rotors for the promise of serious stopping power even in wet weather. — New Atlas, 19 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

Cross could still hear them and feel the draft of the rotors against his skin. — Ryan Devereaux, ProPublica, 10 Oct. 2026

Like other Neue Klasse vehicles, the electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) in the rear axle serves as the primary drive axle, using electricity instead of permanent magnets to power both its stator outer frame and interior spinning rotor. — Andrew J. Hawkins, The Verge, 7 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