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Freewheel

noun, verb

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A device in a transmission that disengages the driveshaft from the driven shaft when the driven shaft rotates faster than the driveshaft.
  2. 2
    a clutch (as on the rear wheel of a bicycle) that allows wheels to turn freely (as in coasting) wordnet
  3. 3
    The mode or state of operation thus produced: Synonym of neutral.
Verb
  1. 1
    To continue spinning after disengagement.
  2. 2
    coast in a vehicle using the freewheel wordnet
  3. 3
    To ride a bicycle without pedalling, e.g. downhill.

    "On her elderly bicycle with the basketwork carrier on the handle-bars, Dorothy free-wheeled down the hill, doing mental arithmetic with three pounds nineteen and fourpence--her entire stock of money until next quarter-day."

  4. 4
    live unhurriedly, irresponsibly, or freely wordnet
  5. 5
    To operate a motor vehicle which is coasting without power, e.g. downhill.
Show 1 more definition
  1. 6
    To operate free from constraints. broadly, figuratively

Etymology

Etymology 1

From free + wheel.

Etymology 2

From free + wheel.

See also for "freewheel"

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