hydraulics
hy-DRAW-liks
/haɪˈdrɔːlɪks/
The branch of science and engineering concerned with the mechanical properties and practical applications of liquids in motion.
Refers specifically to fluid-based mechanical power systems used to move heavy arms, blades, and lifts.
The story behind the word. Derived from Greek 'hydraulikos', combining 'hydor' (water) and 'aulos' (pipe or reed). The ancient Greeks created water-driven organs and pumps using water moving through pipes, laying the foundation for modern fluid power.
Word relationships
- fluid mechanics: 'Fluid mechanics' is the broader theoretical field of physics, whereas 'hydraulics' focuses on practical fluid power applications.
- pneumatics: 'Pneumatics' uses pressurized air/gas, whereas 'hydraulics' uses pressurized liquids (usually oil).
Commonly confused with
- pneumatics: Hydraulics relies on pressurized liquid (incompressible); pneumatics relies on pressurized gas (compressible).
Word family
- hydraulic (adjective): Operated by or moved by liquid under pressure.
- hydraulically (adverb): By means of fluid pressure.
Collocations
- heavy hydraulics
- hydraulics failure
- fluid hydraulics
- hydraulics line
Example sentences
- "The excavating crane lost power when a high-pressure hose in its hydraulics system ruptured suddenly." Equipment Repair
- "Modern heavy machinery relies on advanced hydraulics to multiply mechanical force and lift multi-ton loads." Engineering Lecture
Memory hook
HYDR- (water/fluid) + AULICS (pipes): using liquid in pipes to push heavy weight. HYDRA = water power through pipes.
When not to use
Do not use when referring to pneumatic systems, which use compressed gas instead of liquid fluid.
Fun facts
- Hydraulic oil inside heavy machinery can reach pressures exceeding 5,000 pounds per square inch (psi)!
Related words
Explore more words
hydraulic, hydrology, hydroelectric, hydrodynamic, pneumatic, jack
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