sprocket

Definition

A toothed wheel that enmeshes with a chain or other perforated band.

Etymology

Unknown. First attested in the 16th century. Perhaps related to Italian rocchetto (“spool”), spoletta (“spool”), sprone (“spur”), or English spoke, spike, spur.

Example Sentences

• "Suppose we have a widget factory that produces 100 widgets per year, and a sprocket factory that produces 200 sprockets per year."