sprocket
sprocket Lexical Profile
sprocket Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A profiled wheel with teeth or cogs that interlock with a chain, track, or other perforated material to transmit rotational motion.
"The bicycle chain slipped off the rear sprocket during the steepest part of the climb."
An individual tooth on the rim of a wheel or cylinder, designed to engage with a chain or with perforations in a film or tape.
"The projector jammed because a torn sprocket hole in the film misaligned with the driving sprockets."
Word Nuance & Usage
While often confused with a gear, a sprocket is specifically designed to mesh with a chain, track, or belt, whereas a gear is designed to interlock directly with another gear.
• Rhymes for sprocket
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Mid 16th century: of obscure origin; possibly related to Middle English 'sprok', meaning a twig or shoot.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.