reciprocating engine

American  

noun

1. any engine employing the rectilinear motion of one or more pistons in cylinders.

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reciprocating engine British  

noun

1. an engine in which one or more pistons move backwards and forwards inside a cylinder or cylinders

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Etymology

Origin of reciprocating engine

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

reciprocating engine

Caterpillar has said that it would increase its turbine manufacturing by 2.5 times and that it would increase its large reciprocating engine capacity to three times its 2024 levels.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 1, 2026

At the same time, oil and gas is expected to see moderate growth this year, with reciprocating engine sales expected to increase, driven by strong demand in gas compression applications, Creed says.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 1, 2026

And there were still many jet plane problems to be licked before the planes were as practical as reciprocating engine types.

From Time Magazine Archive

General Motors and Ford now think that the turbine will not replace the reciprocating engine in autos, but believe that they are practical for large trucks and tractors.

From Time Magazine Archive

In the reciprocating engine room there were two 3-1/2-inch, six 3-inch, two 18-inch, and two 5-inch suctions.

From Loss of the Steamship 'Titanic' by Government, British