reciprocating engine

noun

UK /rɪˈsɪprəkeɪtɪŋ ˈendʒɪn/

US /rɪˈsɪprəkeɪtɪŋ ˈendʒɪn/

A machine that makes power by moving a part back and forth inside it.

The old car had a reciprocating engine that made a loud putt-putt sound.

SYNONYMS

piston engine internal combustion engine steam engine positive displacement engine

RELATED WORDS

piston cylinder crankshaft combustion motor

OTHER MEANINGS

2. An engine in which pistons move back and forth to turn a shaft.

Most gasoline-powered cars use a reciprocating engine.

3. A steam engine that uses a piston moving in a cylinder.

The train was driven by a large reciprocating engine.

4. Any engine that converts pressure into back-and-forth motion.

The pump is powered by a small reciprocating engine.