turbine
UK: ˈtɜːbaɪn | US: ˈtɜːrbaɪn
n. a machine for producing continuous power in which a wheel or rotor is made to revolve by a fast-moving flow of water, steam, gas, or air.
turbine = turb<spin, whirl> + ine<noun suffix>
- turb (from Latin turbo, meaning "spinning top" or "whirlwind")
- ine (a noun-forming suffix, often used in scientific or technical terms)
Etymology Origin:
The word "turbine" traces back to the Latin turbo, which referred to a spinning top or whirlwind. This root reflects the core function of a turbine—harnessing rotational motion from a fluid (like steam or water). The suffix -ine was added in the 19th century to form a technical term for this energy-converting machine, emphasizing its dynamic, spinning nature.
The hydroelectric plant uses a turbine to generate electricity from flowing water.
Jet engines rely on a turbine to compress air and produce thrust.
Wind turbines are a common sight in renewable energy farms.
The steam turbine revolutionized power generation in the industrial era.
Engineers are designing more efficient turbines for tidal energy projects.