torque converter: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1technical, specialised
Quick answer
What does “torque converter” mean?
A fluid coupling in an automatic transmission that transfers rotating power from the engine to the transmission, allowing the vehicle to stop without stalling.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A fluid coupling in an automatic transmission that transfers rotating power from the engine to the transmission, allowing the vehicle to stop without stalling.
More broadly, any fluid coupling device that transmits torque, often found in various industrial machinery and marine applications, not just automotive.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No lexical differences. Pronunciation differences follow general UK/US patterns for the constituent words.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations.
Frequency
Equally common in both regional technical domains (automotive engineering).
Grammar
How to Use “torque converter” in a Sentence
The [NOUN] torque converter [VERB]A [ADJ] torque converter for [NOUN][VERB] the torque converterVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “torque converter” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The system torque-converts the engine's power smoothly.
- It's designed to torque-convert efficiently at low revs.
American English
- The unit torque-converts engine power to the drivetrain.
- A good system should torque-convert without excessive slippage.
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverbial form]
American English
- [No standard adverbial form]
adjective
British English
- The torque-converter assembly was faulty.
- We need a torque-converter specialist.
American English
- Check the torque-converter fluid.
- It's a torque-converter issue, not the transmission.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in automotive industry procurement or repair cost discussions.
Academic
Common in engineering textbooks, papers on mechanical or automotive engineering.
Everyday
Used by mechanics, car enthusiasts, or when discussing automatic car problems.
Technical
The primary domain. Precise term in mechanical engineering, automotive repair manuals, and parts catalogues.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “torque converter”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “torque converter”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “torque converter”
- Misspelling as 'torque convertor' (less common variant). Using 'transmission' interchangeably (the torque converter is a part of an automatic transmission).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The torque converter is a key component within an automatic transmission, acting as the fluid coupling between the engine and the gearbox.
It depends on the failure. Some internal parts can be serviced or replaced in a rebuild, but severe damage often requires a complete unit replacement.
Typically, no. Electric motors provide maximum torque from zero RPM and don't need to idle, so they usually use a simple single-speed reduction gear or direct drive, eliminating the need for a torque converter.
It means a internal clutch mechanically locks the turbine to the impeller, creating a direct 1:1 drive connection to eliminate fluid coupling slippage, improving efficiency at highway speeds.
A fluid coupling in an automatic transmission that transfers rotating power from the engine to the transmission, allowing the vehicle to stop without stalling.
Torque converter is usually technical, specialised in register.
Torque converter: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtɔːk kənˌvɜːtə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtɔːrk kənˌvɜːrtər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this technical term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'TORQUE' is twisting force. A CONVERTER changes it from engine speed to wheel speed smoothly, like a liquid handshake.
Conceptual Metaphor
A hydraulic handshake (allowing two rotating parts to connect smoothly via fluid).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a torque converter?