Definition

1. Noun:
   • A rotating mechanical component: A driveshaft is a cylindrical rod that spins to transfer rotational power.
   • A power transmission shaft: Specifically, it transmits torque and rotation from a vehicle's engine or motor to another component, such as the wheels or propeller.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The mechanic replaced the damaged driveshaft in the truck.
  • In a rear-wheel-drive car, the driveshaft connects the transmission to the rear axle.

Advanced Usage

• "Driveshaft assembly": Refers to the complete unit, which may include universal joints, a center support bearing, and other components.
  • The entire driveshaft assembly needs to be balanced for smooth operation.

Variants and Related Words

• Prop shaft: A synonym, commonly used in British English and marine/aviation contexts.
  • The aircraft's prop shaft was inspected for cracks.
• Axle shaft: A related but distinct component that delivers power directly to the wheels from the differential.
  • A broken axle shaft will prevent the wheel from turning.

Synonyms

• Transmission shaft: A general term for a shaft that transmits power.
• Cardan shaft: A historical term, named after the universal joint inventor Girolamo Cardano.

Related Phrases

• To shear a driveshaft: An idiom meaning the driveshaft has broken due to excessive torque.
  • If you dump the clutch at high RPM, you might shear the driveshaft.

Noun

1. a rotating shaft that transmits power from the engine to the point of application