bascule

2 definitions found

bascule - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Bascule \Bas"cule\ (b[a^]s"k[-u]l), n. [F., a seesaw.]
     In mechanics, an apparatus on the principle of the seesaw, in
     which one end rises as the other falls.
     [1913 Webster]
  
     Bascule bridge, a counterpoise or balanced drawbridge,
        which is opened by sinking the counterpoise and thus
        lifting the footway into the air.
        [1913 Webster]

bascule - WordNet (r) 2.1 (2005) :

  bascule
      n 1: a structure or device in which one end is counterbalanced
           by the other (on the principle of the seesaw)