hydraulic ram

noun

1. a device by which the energy of descending water is utilized to raise a part of the water to a height greater than that of the source.

hydraulic ram

noun

1. any large device involving the displacement of a piston or plunger driven by fluid pressure
2. a form of water pump utilizing the kinetic energy of running water to provide static pressure to raise water to a reservoir higher than the source

Word History and Origins

Origin of hydraulic ram¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

Where the stream is on a lower level than the building a hydraulic ram can be used.

From Project Gutenberg

Of appliances utilizing the forces of Nature, perhaps the simplest efficient machine is the hydraulic ram.

From Project Gutenberg

The water power trust won't be able to get in here with a hydraulic ram!

From Project Gutenberg

Chain jammed and packed under th' quadrant, like it had been set by a hydraulic ram!

From Project Gutenberg

Punch might have quoted the authentic story of a very clever lady in this period who imagined that a hydraulic ram was an animal.

From Project Gutenberg