sprocket-wheel

A bicycle chain moves over the sprocket-wheel as the rider pedals.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A toothed wheel: A "sprocket-wheel" is a wheel with teeth (called sprockets) that fit into the links of a chain or into holes in a belt, used to transmit power or motion in machinery.
   • A component of a chain drive: In mechanical systems, a sprocket-wheel engages with a chain to rotate and drive other parts, such as in bicycles, motorcycles, or industrial equipment.

Usage Examples

• (The toothed wheel engages with the chain to propel the bike.)
• (A damaged toothed wheel may fail to grip the chain properly.)

Advanced Usage

• "sprocket-wheel ratio": The relationship between the number of teeth on two sprocket-wheels in a drive system, affecting speed and torque.

  • Changing the sprocket-wheel ratio alters the bicycle's acceleration and top speed. (Adjusting the tooth count changes performance.)

• "sprocket-wheel hub": The central part of the sprocket-wheel that attaches to an axle or shaft.

  • The sprocket-wheel hub must be securely fastened to prevent wobbling. (The hub ensures stable rotation.)

Variants and Related Words

• Sprocket (n): a single tooth on a sprocket-wheel, or the entire wheel itself (often used interchangeably with "sprocket-wheel").

  • The chain jumped off the sprocket due to misalignment. (The chain lost contact with the toothed wheel.)

• Chainwheel (n): a synonym for sprocket-wheel, especially in bicycle contexts.

  • The chainwheel is the large sprocket-wheel attached to the pedals. (The main driving wheel in a bicycle.)

Synonyms

• Toothed wheel: a wheel with projections (teeth) for engaging with a chain or belt.
• Cogwheel: a wheel with teeth that mesh with other gears or chains.

Phrasal Verbs

Related Idioms