Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

countershaft

American  
[koun-ter-shaft, -shahft] / ˈkaʊn tərˌʃæft, -ˌʃɑft /

noun

Machinery.
  1. jackshaft.


countershaft British  
/ 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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of countershaft

First recorded in 1860–65; counter- + shaft

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

The chain reaches its tightest point when there suspension is compressed so that there's a straight line between the rear axle, swingarm pivot, and countershaft sprocket.

From Time Magazine Archive

Kawasaki offers optional parts for the KX250, including carburetor tuning parts, ignition rotors, a larger countershaft sprocket, aluminum and steel rear sprockets, solid brake discs for wet racing conditions and a 20-inch front wheel.

From Time Magazine Archive

When changing rear sprockets, it's always a good idea to check the condition of your chain as well as the countershaft sprocket.

From Time Magazine Archive

The chain looks good and the countershaft sprocket looks pretty good.

From Time Magazine Archive

Dotted lines show connections on back of board The dynamo is mounted on a firm floor foundation; and it is belted from the countershaft by an endless belt running diagonally.

From Electricity for the farm Light, heat and power by inexpensive methods from the water wheel or farm engine by Frederick Irving Anderson

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training