Cam ( noun , verb )

(As a noun)

Cam ( noun )

1. A rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage used especially in transforming rotary motion into linear motion.
2. A rotating or sliding piece that imparts a specific motion to a follower.

Origin:

From old english camma, from proto-germanic *kammaz, from proto-indo-european *kam- (to bend).

Examples:

1. The cam in the engine controls the timing of the valves.
2. A cam is used to convert the circular motion of the motor into the back-and-forth motion of the drill.
3. The camshaft uses a series of cams to open and close the engine's valves.
4. The cam in the lock was worn and needed to be replaced.
5. A cam roller is a component of a cam follower that helps to reduce friction.

(As a verb)

Cam ( verb )

1. A rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage used especially in transforming rotary motion into linear motion.
2. A rotating or sliding piece that imparts a specific motion to a follower.

Origin:

From old english camma, from proto-germanic *kammaz, from proto-indo-european *kam- (to bend).

Examples:

1. The cam in the engine controls the timing of the valves.
2. A cam is used to convert the circular motion of the motor into the back-and-forth motion of the drill.
3. The camshaft uses a series of cams to open and close the engine's valves.
4. The cam in the lock was worn and needed to be replaced.
5. A cam roller is a component of a cam follower that helps to reduce friction.