Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Describing circular motion or shape: "rotary" describes something that moves in a circle or has a circular form.
   • Relating to rotation: "rotary" characterizes something that operates by turning around a central point or axis.

2. Noun:

   • A type of electrical machine: A "rotary" is a converter that changes alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) or vice versa using a rotating machine.
   • A circular road junction: A "rotary" is a circular intersection where traffic moves around a central island.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The engine uses a rotary mechanism to compress air.
  • Old telephones often had a rotary dial.
• Noun:
  • The engineer installed a new rotary to manage the power conversion.
  • Take the second exit off the rotary to get to the city center.

Advanced Usage

• "Rotary motion": Movement in a circular path.
  • The rotary motion of the gears is essential for the machine's function.
• "Rotary club": A global network of community service clubs (This is a proper noun and a specific organization name, not a direct definition of the adjective "rotary").
  • He is an active member of the local Rotary Club.

Variants and Related Words

• Rotate (verb): To turn or cause to turn around an axis.
  • The Earth rotates on its axis.
• Rotation (noun): The action of rotating; one complete turn.
  • The rotation of the planet causes day and night.
• Rotatory (adjective): A less common synonym for "rotary," meaning relating to or causing rotation.
  • The device has a rotatory component.

Synonyms

• Adjective: Revolving, turning, spinning, circular.
• Noun (for road junction): Roundabout, traffic circle.

Related Phrases

• "Rotary engine": A type of internal combustion engine where the primary motion is rotational rather than the reciprocating motion of pistons.
  • Some older aircraft were powered by rotary engines.
• "Rotary switch": An electrical switch that is operated by rotation.
  • Adjust the voltage using the rotary switch on the panel.

Adjective

1. describing a circle; moving in a circle
   • the circular motion of the wheel
2. relating to or characterized by rotation
   • rotary dial

Noun

1. electrical converter consisting of a synchronous machine that converts alternating to direct current or vice versa
2. a road junction at which traffic streams circularly around a central island
   • the accident blocked all traffic at the rotary