Definition

A wheel that is turned by hand, often used to control machinery or adjust settings.

Example

He turned the handwheel to open the valve slowly.

Conversation

Have you ever used a handwheel on a machine before?

Yeah, I used one while working on my dad's old lathe.

It must have been interesting to control the speed with the handwheel.

Definitely! It gives you a lot of precision when you're crafting something.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Handwheel → The word is formed from "hand" (from Old English "hand", meaning the part of the body at the end of the arm used for manipulation) and "wheel" (from Old English "hwēol", meaning a circular object that revolves). A handwheel is a wheel that is operated by hand, typically used to control machinery or equipment.

Memory Tip

Think of using your 'hand' to turn a 'wheel' — that's how a handwheel works.

Visually Confused Words