'Reciprocating engine' definitions:
Definition of 'reciprocating engine'
From: WordNet
noun
An internal-combustion engine in which the crankshaft is turned by pistons moving up and down in cylinders
Definition of 'Reciprocating engine'
From: GCIDE
- Reciprocate \Re*cip"ro*cate\ (r[-e]*s[i^]p"r[-o]*k[=a]t), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Reciprocated (r[-e]*s[i^]p"r[-o]*k[=a]`t[e^]d); p. pr. & vb. n. Reciprocating.] [L. reciprocatus, p. p. of reciprocare. See Reciprocal.] To move forward and backward alternately; to recur in vicissitude; to act interchangeably; to alternate. [1913 Webster]
- One brawny smith the puffing bellows plies, And draws and blows reciprocating air. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
- Reciprocating engine, a steam, air, or gas engine, etc., in which the piston moves back and forth; -- in distinction from a rotary engine, in which the piston travels continuously in one direction in a circular path.
- Reciprocating motion (Mech.), motion alternately backward and forward, or up and down, as of a piston rod. [1913 Webster]