| 释义 |
freewheel
I. \ˈ ̷ ̷| ̷ ̷\ noun
1. : a power-transmission system in a motor vehicle comprising an overrunning clutch that is interposed between the gearbox mechanism and the final drive and that makes the connection for a positive drive between the engine shaft and propeller shaft but permits the propeller shaft to run freely when its speed is greater than that of the engine shaft
2. : a clutch that is fitted in the rear hub of a bicycle and that engages the rear sprocket with the rear wheel when the pedals are rotated forward and permits the rear wheel to run on free from the rear sprocket when the pedals are stopped or rotated backward — compare coaster brake
II. intransitive verb
1.
a. : to run freely independently of a gear by the use of a freewheel — used of a bicycle, bicyclist, or motor vehicle
< he freewheeled down the long hill — Bruce Marshall >
b. of a clutch : to operate like a freewheel
2. : to move, act, live, or drift along freely, independently, or irresponsibly or heedless of rules, responsibilities, or consequences |