noun
- a rotating wheel-shaped part in a machine that converts rotary motion into linear motion by pushing against another part
Usage: mechanical engineering
Examples
- The cam in the engine opens and closes the valves.
- A faulty cam can cause the machine to malfunction.
- The mechanic replaced the worn cam shaft.
- Each cam is precisely timed to control valve movement.
- The cam rotates to push the follower up and down.