ball-bearing

A mechanic places a new ball-bearing into a machine.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of bearing: "ball-bearing" refers to a mechanical component that reduces friction between moving parts by using a set of balls that rotate between two concentric rings (races). It is commonly used in machinery, wheels, and rotating shafts.
   • A single ball within such a bearing: In a more specific technical sense, "ball-bearing" can also denote one of the small spherical metal balls that roll within the bearing assembly.

Usage Examples

• (A mechanical component that reduces friction.)
• (A single spherical metal ball used in the bearing assembly.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be on ball-bearings": to move extremely smoothly, as if using ball-bearings.

  • The drawer slides on ball-bearings, so it opens effortlessly. (The drawer moves with minimal friction due to ball-bearing components.)

• "ball-bearing race": the ring or track that holds the balls in place.

  • The ball-bearing race is made of hardened steel to withstand heavy loads. (The circular groove that guides the balls.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ball-bearing (adj): describing something that uses or is related to ball-bearings.

  • The ball-bearing skateboard wheels are much faster. (The wheels incorporate ball-bearings.)

• Bearing (n): a broader term for any component that supports motion and reduces friction.

  • The engine uses both ball-bearings and roller bearings. (A general term for friction-reducing parts.)

Synonyms

• Roller bearing: a similar type of bearing that uses cylindrical rollers instead of balls.
• Friction reducer: a general term for a device that minimises friction.

Phrasal Verbs

Related Idioms