freewheel

3 definitions found

freewheel - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Freewheel \Free"wheel`\, n. (Mach.)
     A clutch fitted in the rear hub of a cycle, which engages the
     rear sprocket with the rear wheel when the pedals are rotated
     forwards, but permits the rear wheel to run on free from the
     rear sprocket when the pedals are stopped or rotated
     backwards. Freewheelcycles are usually fitted with hub brakes
     or rim brakes, operated by back pedaling.
     [Webster 1913 Suppl.]

  Freewheel \Free"wheel`\, v. i.
     1.
        (a) Of a freewheel cycle, to run on while the pedals are
            held still.
        (b) Of a person, to ride a cycle of this manner; to coast
            in a vehicle having a freewheel. To ride a freewheel
            cycle. [WordNet sense 2]
            [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
  
     2. (Mach.) To operate like a freewheel, so that one part
        moves freely over another which normally moves with it; --
        said of a clutch.
        [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
  
     3. To act without controls, external or internal; to live
        freely, independently, and without concern; -- of people.
        [WordNet sense 1]
        [PJC]

freewheel - WordNet (r) 2.1 (2005) :

  freewheel
      n 1: a clutch (as on the rear wheel of a bicycle) that allows
           wheels to turn freely (as in coasting)
      v 1: live unhurriedly, irresponsibly, or freely; "My son drifted
           around for years in California before going to law school"
           [syn: freewheel, drift]
      2: coast in a vehicle using the freewheel