leaf spring

American  

noun

1. a long, narrow, multiple spring composed of several layers of spring metal bracketed together: used in some suspension systems of carriages and automobiles.

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leaf spring British  

noun

1. one of a number of metal strips bracketed together in length to form a compound spring

2. the compound spring so formed

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Etymology

Origin of leaf spring

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Instead of coil springs or a flexing axle it uses a single transverse leaf spring with the wheels attached at the ends.

From Time Magazine Archive

His body was tensed as a strong leaf spring drawn to the breaking strain; his face was grave and gray, and his eyes were on the ground immediately ahead of him.

From "Travels with Charley in Search of America" by John Steinbeck

These rolls are held to the work by a leaf spring, as shown in the cut, the tension on the spring being adjusted by the screw at d, d serving as a check-nut.

From Modern Machine-Shop Practice, Volumes I and II by Rose, Joshua

The distinctive feature is the use of a four-blade leaf spring with a forked end encircling the valve stems and pressing against a collar on its extremity.

From Aviation Engines Design?Construction?Operation and Repair by Pag?, Victor Wilfred