torque
Torque (noun) means a twisting or rotational force that makes something turn around an axis. Example: “The engine produces enough torque to tow a trailer.”
How to use torque
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe turning force behind rotation — the harder something twists, the more torque it has.
Word forms
torqued past tense, torques plural, torques plural, torques singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The engine produces enough _____ to tow a trailer.
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin torquere, "to twist."
Synonyms
View more →Rhymes for torque
See all rhymes for torque →Frequently asked questions
What does “torque” mean?
The word “torque” means a twisting or rotational force that makes something turn around an axis. In plain terms, the turning force behind rotation — the harder something twists, the more torque it has.
How do you pronounce “torque”?
“Torque” is pronounced tawk (/tɔɹk/ in IPA).
How do you use “torque” in a sentence?
Here is “torque” used in a sentence: “The engine produces enough torque to tow a trailer.”
What part of speech is “torque”?
Depending on how it is used, “torque” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “torque” come from?
The word “torque” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Latin torquere, "to twist.".
Is “torque” a common word?
“Torque” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “torque” have?
“Torque” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a twisting or rotational force that makes something turn around an axis.
What is the difference between torque and force?
Force is a push or pull that can move an object in a straight line, while torque specifically describes a twisting or rotational force that causes something to turn around an axis, such as a wrench turning a bolt.
How is torque used as a verb?
As a verb, to torque something means to apply a twisting force to make it rotate, as in 'torque the bolt to the specified setting.'
In what contexts is torque commonly used?
Torque is commonly used in mechanics and engineering, especially regarding engines, bolts, and tools, where it describes the rotational force needed to turn or tighten a component.