rotary

1 of 2

adjective

ro·​ta·​ry ˈrō-tə-rē 

1

a

: turning on an axis like a wheel

b

: taking place about an axis

rotary motion

2

: having an important part that turns on an axis

rotary cutter

3

: characterized by rotation

4

: of, relating to, or being a press in which paper is printed by rotation in contact with a curved printing surface attached to a cylinder

rotary

2 of 2

noun

plural rotaries

1

: a rotary machine

2

: a road junction formed around a central circle about which traffic moves in one direction only

called also circle, traffic circle

Examples of rotary in a Sentence

Adjective

the rotary action of the wheel

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

But as with the many monitors, the walkie-talkies and rotary phones and control panels all worked, a verisimilitude that, to Benesch, made each uninterrupted, carefully choreographed take that much more stressful. —Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 24 Dec. 2024

Early on while our eyes are still adjusting to the style, the dim bluish lighting and the hectic way people run around grabbing maps and slamming rotary phones almost feel like a send-up of a CIA spy flick. —Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 12 Dec. 2024

Noun

Between the front passengers, there’s a floating centre console with climate control rotary dials and two cupholders beneath. —Trinity Francis, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024

The company is probably best known for its sleek and utilitarian toggle light switches and rotary dimmers, as well as cabinet pulls inspired by motorcycle handlebars. —Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 3 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Medieval Latin rotarius, from Latin rota wheel

First Known Use

Adjective

1704, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1836, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rotary

• rotary cultivator
• rotary engine
• rotary-wing aircraft

Kids Definition

rotary

1 of 2 adjective

ro·​ta·​ry ˈrōt-ə-rē 

1

a

: turning on an axis like a wheel

a rotary blade

b

: taking place about an axis

rotary motion

2

: having a rotating part

a rotary lawn mower

rotary

2 of 2 noun

plural rotaries

1

: a rotary machine

2

: a road junction formed around a central circle about which traffic moves in one direction only