hydraulic
hy-DRAW-lik
/haɪˈdrɔː.lɪk/
Denoting, relating to, or operated by a liquid moving in a confined space under pressure.
Specifically implies the use of pressurized liquid (usually oil or water) to transmit mechanical power.
The story behind the word. In ancient Alexandria, Ctesibius invented the 'hydraulis', a musical keyboard instrument that used water pressure to force air through organ pipes. The Greek roots 'hydor' (water) and 'aulos' (pipe) combined to describe this water-pipe organ, eventually evolving to describe pressurized fluid machinery.
Word relationships
- fluid-driven: Fluid-driven is a broader term that can include gases, whereas hydraulic strictly implies pressurized liquid.
- pneumatic: Pneumatic systems use compressed gas, whereas hydraulic systems use pressurized liquid.
Commonly confused with
- hydroelectric: Hydroelectric refers to generating electricity from falling water, while hydraulic refers to mechanical power transmitted by pressurized liquid.
Word family
- hydraulics (noun): The branch of science and technology concerned with the mechanics of fluids.
- hydraulically (adverb): By means of pressurized liquid or water power.
Collocations
- hydraulic press
- hydraulic fluid
- hydraulic system
- hydraulic brakes
Example sentences
- "The excavator used powerful hydraulic cylinders to lift the massive concrete blocks with ease." Heavy machinery operation
- "Modern cars rely on a hydraulic braking system to multiply the force of the driver's foot on the pedal." Automotive engineering
Memory hook
Think of a 'hydra' (water monster) pulling a heavy 'hydraulic' lever under the sea. Hydraulic = Hydra-powered water pipes.
When not to use
Do not confuse with pneumatic, which uses pressurized air or gas rather than liquid.
Fun facts
- The hydraulic press is so powerful because liquids are virtually incompressible, allowing force to be transmitted with almost zero loss of energy.
Related words
Explore more words
pneumatic, hydroelectric, hydrodynamic, vascular, conduit, actuator
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