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

The Martian atmosphere is thin, just 1 percent the density of air at sea level on Earth, so helicopters flying on Mars must spin their rotors faster than on Earth to generate lift. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 1 Sep. 2026

The rotor, plated in 5N rose gold, is also inspired by a wind motif while the screw is polished in black. — Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 1 Sep. 2026

Therefore, mechanical rotors must spin at extreme speeds to separate them. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 28 Aug. 2026

High-Gain Antenna Standing in for a helicopter's rotor is the antenna dish on top of Roman. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 26 Aug. 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