Ferris wheel

American  

[fer-is] / ˈfɛr ɪs /

noun

1. an amusement ride consisting of a large upright wheel rotating on a fixed stand and having seats around its rim suspended freely so that they remain right side up as they revolve.

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Ferris wheel British  

/ ˈfɛrɪs /

noun

1. a fairground wheel having seats freely suspended from its rim; the seats remain horizontal throughout its rotation

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Etymology

Origin of Ferris wheel

1890–95; named after G. W. G. Ferris (died 1896), American engineer

Example Sentences

Across the water, Ain Dubai -- the world's tallest Ferris wheel -- has stopped turning, and the Madame Tussauds wax museum below is drawing few visitors despite hefty discounts.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

The smell of roasted almonds, caramelised apples, chocolate-coated fruit, mulled wine and grilled sausages fills the air, as Christmas carols are performed live on a stage and children enjoy a small, sparkling Ferris wheel.

From BBC • Nov. 28, 2025

You’ll spy a small train coaster, a mini Ferris wheel and a circus area, complete with a large statue of a clown that would tower over guests.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 24, 2025

There’s a moving roller coaster and Ferris wheel and tiny pedestrians.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 3, 2025

Not the cold or the ground swaying, like she was in the bottom of the Ferris wheel, rocking back and forth to some distant music and the light of the moon.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny