Definition

1. Noun:
   • The axle of a self-propelled vehicle that provides the driving power: A driving axle is a shaft that connects to and transmits power from the engine or motor to the wheels, causing them to rotate and propel the vehicle forward.

Usage

• The term "driving axle" is used specifically in mechanical and automotive engineering contexts to describe the component responsible for delivering torque to the wheels.
• It is a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The truck's rear driving axle was damaged in the accident.
  • In a locomotive, the driving axles are directly connected to the pistons.
  • The mechanic inspected the driving axle for signs of wear.

Advanced Usage

• "live axle": A synonym often used in automotive design, referring to an axle that also transmits power, as opposed to a "dead axle" which only supports weight.
  • Many older cars use a live rear axle design.

Variants and Related Words

• Drive axle (n): A common variant with the same meaning.
  • The electric motor is connected to the front drive axle.
• Axleshaft (n): Often refers to the individual rotating shaft within the axle assembly that delivers power to a single wheel.
• Powertrain (n): The entire system of components that generates power and delivers it to the road surface, which includes the driving axle.

Synonyms

• Live axle: An axle that transmits propulsion power.
• Power axle: An axle that delivers driving force.

Related Phrases

• Driving wheel: The wheel that is turned by the driving axle.
  • The locomotive's driving wheels are mounted on the driving axles.

Noun

1. the axle of a self-propelled vehicle that provides the driving power