stationary engine

American  

noun

1. an engine mounted in a fixed position, as one used for driving generators, compressors, etc.

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stationary engine British  

noun

1. an engine that remains in a fixed position, esp one in a building that drives generators or other machinery

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Other Word Forms

• stationary engineer
  noun

Etymology

Origin of stationary engine

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

His father worked for the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Coal Co., first running the stationary engine in the shaft, then working on a company-owned farm.

From Time Magazine Archive

In 1880 Vacuum was absorbed by Standard Oil and developed rapidly when lubricating oil was needed for the stationary engine, the automobile, and finally the electric generator, motor and transformer and the steam turbine.

From Time Magazine Archive

While still in his teens he found employment in running a stationary engine.

From How to Get on in the World A Ladder to Practical Success by Calhoon, Major A.R.

In the United States, Oliver Evans had introduced the non-condensing high-pressure stationary engine, which was the progenitor of the standard engine of that type which is now used far more generally than any other form.

From A History of the Growth of the Steam-Engine by Thurston, Robert H.

Mr. Baldwin's attention was thenceforward given to locomotive building exclusively, except that a stationary engine was occasionally constructed.

From Illustrated Catalogue of Locomotives Baldwin Locomotive Works by Baird, Matthew