rotor

noun

ro·​tor ˈrō-tər 

1

a

: a part that revolves in a stationary part

a brake rotor

b

: the rotating member of an electrical machine

2

: an assembly of rotating blades that supplies lift or stability for a rotorcraft

Examples of rotor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One amounted to a reinvention of the cell on wheels (COW) truck, a longstanding tool to add temporary coverage, with wings and rotors. —Rob Pegoraro, PC Magazine, 1 May 2026

The one-rotor has the potential to make even more power once Dahm figures out the nagging fuel issue. —Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 30 Apr. 2026

My mechanic already replaced the computer, distributor cap, rotor, spark plugs, and wires. —Hartford Courant, 25 Apr. 2026

Then the four front propellers tilted forward, and the aircraft accelerated, no longer hanging on its rotors like a helicopter but cruising on its wings like a small airplane. —Deni Ellis Béchard, Scientific American, 25 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

contraction of rotator

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing rotor

• tilt-rotor

Rhymes for rotor

• boater
• floater
• motor
• voter
• locomotor
• psychomotor
• servomotor
• vasomotor
• oculomotor
• sensorimotor
• premotor
• promoter

Kids Definition

rotor

noun

ro·​tor ˈrōt-ər 

1

: a part that rotates in a stationary part (as in an electrical machine)

2

: a complete system of rotating blades that support a helicopter in flight