DictionaryrotaryTurning motion
adjective / noun

rotary

ROH-tuh-ree/ˈrəʊtəri/

Operating by turning around an axis.

The rotary shaft turns around its fixed axis.

Close rotary machine shaft spinning around fixed axle.
Etymology

The pieces express 'pertaining to wheels.' A wheel's movement supplies the central image: rotary describes motion that turns around a central point or axis.

In context

Rotary Crafts0:26
they're talking about a rotary tool people even refer to Rotary tools that are not made by Dremel as dremel tools a Dremel has a bit at the front of the tool that rotates really fast
Dremel/Rotary Tool 101: Complete Beginner Guide

More examples

  • She uses a rotary tool to smooth the wood.
  • A rotary pump moves oil through the system.
  • The mechanism converts rotary motion into straight-line motion.

Forms

rotary · rotaries

rotate verb — To turn or move around an axis.

rotation noun — The act of turning around an axis.

Similar words

rotating
Describes something actually turning, not simply designed to turn.
rotational
Describes motion around an axis rather than a device's operation.