hydraulic
hy-DRAW-lik
/haɪˈdrɔː.lɪk/
Operated, moved, or effected by the pressure of liquid traveling through pipes or channels.
Implies energy transmission or force multiplication via incompressible fluid under controlled pressure.
The story behind the word. From Greek 'hydraulikos', coined from 'hydor' (water) and 'aulos' (pipe or flute). The term originally described ancient Roman water-powered pipe organs before expanding to denote liquid mechanical systems.
Word relationships
- fluid-powered: Fluid-powered is a descriptive lay term, whereas hydraulic is the technical scientific term for liquid systems.
- pneumatic: Pneumatic systems operate using compressed gas/air, while hydraulic systems operate using incompressible liquids.
Commonly confused with
- pneumatic: Hydraulic uses liquid (oil/water) to transmit force; pneumatic uses compressed air or gas.
Word family
- hydraulics (noun): The branch of science concerned with the mechanical properties of liquids.
Collocations
- hydraulic pressure
- hydraulic fluid
- hydraulic actuator
- hydraulic lift
Example sentences
- "The heavy excavator arm relies on high-pressure hydraulic fluid flowing through reinforced steel-braided hoses." Heavy machinery
- "Hydraulic jumps occur when water flow transitions rapidly from high velocity to subcritical tranquil flow." Civil engineering
Memory hook
HYDRO (water) + AULOS (pipe) = HYDRAULIC liquid power in pipes. Liquid pressure power.
When not to use
Do not use for systems using air or compressed gases; pneumatic is the correct term for gas power.
Fun facts
- Water was the original hydraulic fluid in the 19th century before industrial mineral oils were developed to prevent internal pipe rusting.
Explore more words
pneumatic, hydroelectric, hydrodynamic, vascular, conduit, actuator
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