countershaft

[ koun-ter-shaft, -shahft ]

noun

, Machinery.

1. jackshaft ( def 1 ).

countershaft

/ ˈkaʊntəˌʃɑːft /

noun

1. an intermediate shaft that is driven by, but rotates in the opposite direction to, a main shaft, esp in a gear train

Other Words From

• counter·shafting noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of countershaft¹

First recorded in 1860–65; counter- + shaft

Example Sentences

A small lathe, with an 8-inch swing, can be obtained at a low cost, provided with a countershaft complete.

From Project Gutenberg

The countershaft rests in self-adjusting boxes, and has a tight and a loose pulley eight inches in diameter.

From Project Gutenberg

The feed and exhaust valves, M, are actuated by cams keyed to a countershaft driven by bevel wheels from the main shaft.

From Project Gutenberg

Let the diameter of the second driven be 12; then its driver on the countershaft must be 24.

From Project Gutenberg

The sides of this machine a, a, Fig. 3099, are cast with an extension for countershaft.

From Project Gutenberg