cam Definition
- 1a rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage used especially in transforming rotary motion into linear motion or vice versa
- 2a projecting part of a wheel or other moving piece so shaped and so applied as to give alternate or variable motion to another piece against which it works
Using cam: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cam" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The cam is used to convert the rotary motion of the engine into the reciprocating motion of the pistons.
Example
The cam on the sewing machine controls the movement of the needle.
Example
The cam on the loom determines the pattern of the weave.
cam Synonyms and Antonyms
Summary: cam in Brief
A 'cam' [kæm] is a rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage that converts rotary motion into linear motion or vice versa. It can also be a projecting part of a wheel or other moving piece that gives alternate or variable motion to another piece. Examples include the cam in an engine that moves the pistons, the cam on a sewing machine that controls the needle, and the cam on a loom that determines the weave pattern.
