gyroscope
/ˈd͡ʒaɪ.ɹəˌskoʊp/
UK: /ˈd͡ʒaɪ.ɹəˌskəʊp/
D͡ƷAꞮ · ɹəskoʊp (2 syllables)
English
Noun Top 48,814
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Definition
An apparatus composed of a wheel which spins inside of a frame (gimbal) and causes the balancing of the frame in any direction or position. In the form of a gyroscopic stabilizer, used to help keep aircraft and ships steady.
Etymology
Borrowed from French gyroscope, coined in 1852 by physicist Leon Foucault, equivalent to gyro- + -scope, from Ancient Greek γῦρος (gûros, “circle”) and σκοπός (skopós, “watcher”).
Example Sentences
- "Working with NR, ScotRail and Porterbrook, Perpetuum has fitted sensors with gyroscopes and accelerometers to trains that are already in passenger service."
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