slave cylinder: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical / Mechanical
Quick answer
What does “slave cylinder” mean?
A hydraulic cylinder in a vehicle's clutch or brake system that is operated by a master cylinder, transmitting fluid pressure to actuate a mechanism.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A hydraulic cylinder in a vehicle's clutch or brake system that is operated by a master cylinder, transmitting fluid pressure to actuate a mechanism.
Any secondary cylinder in a hydraulic system that is actuated by the pressure generated in a primary (master) cylinder, commonly found in automotive and industrial applications.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling of related terms may differ (e.g., 'centre' vs. 'center').
Connotations
Purely technical, with no cultural or social connotations in this context.
Frequency
Equally common and specific in both varieties within automotive/engineering discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “slave cylinder” in a Sentence
The [clutch/brake] slave cylinder [verbs: failed/leaks/actuates]to replace/bleed/install a slave cylinderVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “slave cylinder” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The slave-cylinder unit needs servicing.
- A slave-cylinder replacement kit.
American English
- The slave cylinder unit needs service.
- A slave cylinder replacement kit.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in engineering and automotive technology texts.
Everyday
Used when discussing car repairs with a mechanic.
Technical
Core term in automotive repair manuals and hydraulic system design.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “slave cylinder”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “slave cylinder”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “slave cylinder”
- Calling it the 'slave *tank*' (it's a cylinder).
- Using 'slave' as a verb (e.g., 'it slaves the clutch').
- Confusing which cylinder is the slave vs. the master.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In the technical/mechanical context, it is a standard, historical term without intended negative social commentary. However, some industries are moving towards terms like 'primary/secondary cylinder' or 'actuator cylinder' due to heightened sensitivity.
Yes. A car typically has one for the clutch system. In brake systems, each wheel's brake caliper or wheel cylinder functions as a slave cylinder, all fed by the single brake master cylinder.
It usually leaks hydraulic fluid, leading to a loss of pressure. This results in a soft or sinking pedal (clutch or brake) and eventual failure to disengage the clutch or apply the brakes effectively.
It can be for experienced home mechanics, as it involves bleeding the hydraulic system to remove air, which is critical for safe operation. For brakes, professional work is strongly recommended due to safety implications.
A hydraulic cylinder in a vehicle's clutch or brake system that is operated by a master cylinder, transmitting fluid pressure to actuate a mechanism.
Slave cylinder is usually technical / mechanical in register.
Slave cylinder: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsleɪv ˈsɪl.ɪn.dər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsleɪv ˈsɪl.ən.dɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'slave' obeying a 'master'. The SLAVE CYLINDER follows orders from the MASTER CYLINDER, moving when the master sends hydraulic pressure.
Conceptual Metaphor
HIERARCHY (master/slave relationship applied to mechanical control).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a slave cylinder?