'Diaphragm pump' definitions:

Definition of 'Diaphragm pump'

From: GCIDE
  • Diaphragm \Di"a*phragm\, n. [L. diaphragma, Gr. ?, fr. ? to fence by a partition wall; dia` through + ?, ?, to fence, inclose; prob. akin to L. fareire to stuff: cf. F. diaphragme. See Farce.]
  • 1. A dividing membrane or thin partition, commonly with an opening through it. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Anat.) The muscular and tendinous partition separating the cavity of the chest from that of the abdomen; the midriff. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Zool.) A calcareous plate which divides the cavity of certain shells into two parts. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. (Opt.) A plate with an opening, which is generally circular, used in instruments to cut off marginal portions of a beam of light, as at the focus of a telescope. [1913 Webster]
  • 5. (Mach.) A partition in any compartment, for various purposes. [1913 Webster]
  • Diaphragm pump, one in which a flexible diaphragm takes the place of a piston. [1913 Webster]