noun, verb ·Rare ·Advanced level

Definitions

Noun

1. 1
   A common mechanical component used to transfer or synchronize rotational force in a machine.
2. 2
   A wheelless axle used to turn the wheels of a locomotive.

   "Final drive is by reduction gears on the jackshaft, and through flycranks and rods to the wheels."

Verb

1. 1
   To transfer or synchronize rotational force by means of a jackshaft.

Synonyms

All synonyms

countershaftcountershaftcountershaft

Example

More examples

"Final drive is by reduction gears on the jackshaft, and through flycranks and rods to the wheels."

Etymology

From jack + shaft.

Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.