reaction engine
noun Aeronautics, Rocketry.
an engine that produces power as a reaction to the momentum given to gases ejected from it, as a rocket or jet engine.
Nearby words
react, reactance, reactant, reaction, reaction chamber, reaction engine, reaction formation, reaction of degeneration, reaction time, reaction turbine, reactionary
Origin of reaction engine
First recorded in 1865–70
Also called reaction motor.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for reaction engine
It revolved by the agency of steam, and was of the form that we should now call a reaction-engine.
History of the Conflict Between Religion and Science|John William Draper
British Dictionary definitions for reaction engine
reaction engine
reaction motor
noun
an engine, such as a jet or rocket engine, that ejects gas at high velocity and develops its thrust from the ensuing reaction
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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