a mechanism consisting of a worm engaging with and driving a worm wheel, the two axes usually being at right angles, used where a relatively low speed and a relatively large amplification of power are desired.
2.
Also called worm wheel. a gear wheel driven by a worm.
Also, wormgear.
Origin
1875-80
Examples from the web for worm gear
The gear housing shall be divided horizontally at the center line of shaft to provide access to the worm gear.
Securely fasten flexible connections to round ducts with stainless steel or zinc-coated iron draw bands with worm gear fastener.
Securely fasten flexible connections to round ducts with stainless steel or zinc coated iron draw bands with worm gear fastener.
The linkage shall be driven by a fully enclosed, double reduction, worm gear speed reducer.
Sample distribution shall be through the use of a worm gear drive mechanism.
British Dictionary definitions for worm gear
worm gear
noun
1.
a device consisting of a threaded shaft (worm) that mates with a gearwheel (worm wheel) so that rotary motion can be transferred between two shafts at right angles to each other
2.
Also called worm wheel. a gearwheel driven by a threaded shaft or worm