jackshaft

[ jak-shaft, -shahft ]
/ ˈdʒækˌʃæft, -ˌʃɑft /

noun Machinery.

Also called countershaft. a short shaft, connected by belting, gears, etc., that transmits motion from a motor or engine to a machine or machines being driven (distinguished from main shaft).
a shaft on which an idle wheel or fairlead turns.

Origin of jackshaft

First recorded in 1895–1900; jack1 + shaft

Words nearby jackshaft

Example sentences from the Web for jackshaft

British Dictionary definitions for jackshaft

jackshaft
/ (ˈdʒækˌʃɑːft) /

noun

a short length of shafting that transmits power from an engine or motor to a machine