Definition

Noun 1. A tooth on the rim of a gear wheel: A sprocket is one of the individual teeth or projections on the edge of a wheel, designed to engage with the links of a chain. 2. A thin wheel with teeth that engage with a chain: This refers to the entire wheel (often called a sprocket wheel) that has teeth around its circumference to mesh with a chain, transferring motion. 3. A roller that has teeth on the rims to pull film or paper through: A sprocket is a toothed wheel or roller used in machinery (like film projectors or printers) to advance material by engaging with holes along its edges.

Usage and Examples

• The bicycle's sprocket was worn out, causing the chain to slip.
• You need to replace the rear sprocket to improve the bike's gearing.
• The film projector uses a sprocket to pull the movie film through the gate steadily.
• In the printer, a plastic sprocket advances the perforated paper.

Advanced Usage and Technical Contexts

• Sprocket Hole: The hole in film or paper that engages with the sprocket tooth.
  • Old film can tear at the sprocket holes.
• Sprocket Drive: A mechanism using a sprocket and chain to transmit power.
  • The motorcycle uses a sprocket drive system.

Variants and Related Words

• Sprocket Wheel: (Noun) A complete wheel with sprockets; often used synonymously with "sprocket."
  • The sprocket wheel connects to the pedal crank.
• Sprocketed: (Adjective) Fitted with or having sprockets.
  • The sprocketed roller guides the film.

Synonyms

• Cog
• Gear tooth
• Toothed wheel

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Chain Sprocket: A sprocket specifically designed to engage with a chain.
• Drive Sprocket: The sprocket that transmits power from the motor or engine.
• Idler Sprocket: A sprocket used to guide or tension a chain without transmitting power.

Noun

1. tooth on the rim of gear wheel
2. thin wheel with teeth that engage with a chain
3. roller that has teeth on the rims to pull film or paper through