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Definition of camshaft

camshaft

/ˈkæm.ʃæft/
cam · shaft
Plural:camshafts
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camshaft Lexical Profile

camshaft Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A rotating shaft fitted with one or more cams, typically used in internal combustion engines to operate the intake and exhaust valves.

Example

"The mechanic determined that the engine misfire was caused by a worn lobe on the camshaft."

• Nearby Words

campstool
campus
campy
camshaft
camu-camu
camus
can

Word Origin & Etymology

A compound of 'cam' and 'shaft', originating in the mid-19th century as mechanical engineering and steam engine technology advanced.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Camshaft. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/camshaft
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