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noun

das Triebwerk, -e

engine

Dies ist der Teil einer Maschine, der Kraft erzeugt, damit sich ein Flugzeug oder eine Rakete durch die Luft bewegen kann.

Definition & meaning

A Triebwerk is a technical term used to describe a machine that generates propulsion or driving power. In modern usage, it most commonly refers to the engine of an aircraft or a spacecraft, such as a jet engine or a rocket motor. Beyond aviation, it can also refer to the entire mechanism responsible for movement in various types of heavy machinery or mills.

There are two primary contexts for the word:

  1. Aviation and Aerospace: The unit that produces thrust to move an airplane or rocket.
  2. Mechanical Engineering: The components of a machine that transmit power and generate motion, often including gears, shafts, and the power source itself.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a neuter noun (das Triebwerk). Its plural form is "die Triebwerke".

It is a compound noun consisting of two parts:

  1. Trieb: Derived from the verb treiben, which means to drive, push, or propel. It signifies the force or the act of propulsion.
  2. Werk: This means a work, a mechanism, or a factory. In this context, it refers to a complex set of mechanical parts working together.

Together, the word literally translates to "propulsion mechanism" or "driving work."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Antrieb: A general term for propulsion or drive.
  • Motor: Usually used for internal combustion engines or electric motors.
  • Maschine: A broader term for any machine, often used as a synonym in aviation contexts.
  • Aggregat: A technical term for a set of machines or a power unit.
  • Strahltriebwerk: Specifically refers to a jet engine.

Antonyms: There are no direct technical antonyms for Triebwerk, as it describes a specific piece of hardware. However, in terms of function, one could consider:

  • Bremse: A brake, which serves the opposite function of propulsion by slowing movement.
  • Segel: A sail, representing a passive way of gaining movement from external forces rather than generating it via a mechanical engine.

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Examples

Das Triebwerk des Flugzeugs wurde überprüft.noun

The engine of the airplane was inspected.

Die Ingenieure untersuchten die neuen Triebwerke genau.noun

The engineers examined the new engines closely.

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