Definition

Noun: 1. A circular horizontal platform that rotates a phonograph record while it is being played: The rotating part of a record player on which the vinyl disc is placed. 2. A rotatable platform with a track; used to turn locomotives and cars: A large, circular rotating platform on a railway, used to change the direction of a locomotive or railcar. 3. A revolving tray placed on a dining table: A circular tray, often placed on a table, that can be rotated to allow diners to easily access shared dishes.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Record Player):
  • The stylus gently lowered onto the spinning turntable.
  • He cleaned the dust off the turntable before playing his favorite album.
• Noun (Railway):
  • The steam engine was moved onto the turntable to be turned around for its return journey.
  • The roundhouse was built around a central turntable.
• Noun (Dining):
  • Please pass the salt; it's on the turntable in the center of the table.
  • The lazy Susan is a common type of turntable found in many Chinese restaurants.

Advanced Usage

• "Direct-drive turntable": A type of record player where the platter is driven directly by the motor, prized for its consistent speed and quick start.
  • DJs often prefer direct-drive turntables for their durability and torque.
• "Belt-drive turntable": A type of record player where the platter is driven by a belt connected to the motor, often valued for reducing motor vibration.
  • Audiophiles might choose a belt-drive turntable for its quieter operation.

Variants and Related Words

• Record player / Phonograph (n): The complete device for playing vinyl records, which includes a turntable, tonearm, and cartridge.
• Platter (n): Another term for the rotating disc of a record player, synonymous with in this context.
• Lazy Susan (n): A common term for a revolving tray or turntable used on dining tables.

Synonyms

• Revolver (n, for railway use): A less common synonym for a railway turntable.
• Rotating platform / Revolving platform (n): General descriptive terms for any turntable.

Noun

1. a rotatable platform with a track; used to turn locomotives and cars
2. a revolving tray placed on a dining table
3. a circular horizontal platform that rotates a phonograph record while it is being played