noun
camshaft
KAM-shaft
Camshaft (noun) means a camshaft is a rotating shaft fitted with cams that operates the valves in a piston engine. Example: “The mechanic replaced the worn camshaft during the engine rebuild.”
noun
1
A camshaft is a rotating shaft fitted with cams that operates the valves in a piston engine.
"The mechanic replaced the worn camshaft during the engine rebuild."
"A camshaft controls when each valve opens and closes."
"This engine uses two camshafts instead of one."
How to use camshaft
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe rotating rod in an engine that opens and closes the valves.
When to use it
Camshaft is a technical term from mechanical engineering and motoring.
Memory tip
Don't confuse camshaft with crankshaft; they are different parts with different jobs.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
camshaft rotates
replace the camshaft
camshaft timing
dual camshafts
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The mechanic replaced the worn _____ during the engine rebuild.
Etymology
Camshaft is a compound word formed from cam and shaft, describing a rotating rod fitted with cams.
Frequently asked questions
What does a camshaft do?
A camshaft opens and closes an engine's valves at the right moment as it turns.
Where is a camshaft located?
It sits inside a piston engine, connected to the valve train.
What is the difference between a camshaft and a crankshaft?
A camshaft operates the valves, while a crankshaft is a separate, related part that turns the pistons' motion into rotation.
What is the meaning of camshaft?
"camshaft" (noun) means a camshaft is a rotating shaft fitted with cams that operates the valves in a piston engine.
