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selsyn

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈsɛl.sɪn/

KK: /sɛlˌsɪn/

noun
Definition

A device that transmits the position or movement of an angle from one part of a machine to another, often used in generators and motors.


Example

The engineer installed a selsyn to ensure accurate position feedback between the generator and the motor.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of a selsyn?
Sloth B
No, I haven't. What is it?
Sloth A
It's a device that transmits movement from a generator to a motor.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I wonder how it works.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
transmitter
encoder
sensor
Antonyms
receiver
disconnector
isolator
Root Explanation

The word 'selsyn' originates from the combination of 'self' (from Old English 'seolf', meaning oneself) and 'synchronization' (from Greek 'synchronos', meaning occurring at the same time). It refers to a system that allows for self-synchronization, where components operate in harmony with one another.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' meaning oneself and 'synchronization' meaning happening at the same time — this helps you remember that 'selsyn' refers to a system that operates in harmony with itself.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

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