tappet

American  

[tap-it] / ˈtæp ɪt /

noun

Machinery.

1. a sliding rod, intermittently struck by a cam, for moving another part, as a valve.

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tappet British  

/ ˈtæpɪt /

noun

1. a mechanical part that reciprocates to receive or transmit intermittent motion, esp the part of an internal-combustion engine that transmits motion from the camshaft to the push rods or valves

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Etymology

Origin of tappet

First recorded in 1735–45; tap ¹ + -et

Example Sentences

Each faller is provided with a tappet or wooden peg driven in at one side, which engages with the teeth or “wipers” of the revolving shaft in the front of the machine.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 10, Slice 3 "Fenton, Edward" to "Finistere" by Various

Tommy was hanging up his battery on account of a loose tappet.

From The Blue Goose by Nason, Frank Lewis

The valves, R, which are opened by the tappet, S, are of peculiar construction, and we hope soon to be able to give details of them.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 717, September 28, 1889 by Various

Each valve is cam operated through a tappet, push rod and rocker arm, seven cams being used on a seven-cylinder engine and nine cams on the nine-cylinder.

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

At the same time, the tappet, 3, by moving the arm, s, downward, opens the steam-valve, e, and the exhaust-valve, c.

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