Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
piston
noun
/ˈpɪstən/
Definition
A piston is a cylindrical component that moves up and down inside a cylinder, usually as part of an engine or pump, to convert pressure into mechanical work.
Examples
- The piston in the car’s engine compresses the fuel-air mixture.
- During the stroke, the piston moves downwards creating a vacuum.
- Hydraulic systems use pistons to exert force and perform work.
Meaning
In engineering, a piston serves as a moving element that helps in transferring force from the gas pressure acting on it to the crankshaft.
Synonyms
- cylinder
- plunger
- ram
