compressed air

noun

1. air compressed, especially by mechanical means, to a pressure higher than the surrounding atmospheric pressure.

compressed air

noun

1. air at a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure: used esp as a source of power for machines

Word History and Origins

Origin of compressed air¹

First recorded in 1660–70

Example Sentences

Together, they created a deluxe valve system that supplies divers with compressed air.

Read more on Literature

Then comes the blast wave—a wall of compressed air expanding out from the explosion faster than the speed of sound—and the houses shatter.

Read more on Literature

Vanguard also will include a floating structure on the surface of the water to transport compressed air, power the vessel, and allow for communication with the outside world.

Read more on Barron's

A hiss and puff of compressed air shapes the smooth leather, bringing to life an all-American cowboy boot in a factory on China's eastern coast.

Read more on BBC

"Another factor that comes into play is that we are powering this robot with compressed air," Qing says.

Read more on Science Daily