Illustration of escapement
- escapement 1a
escapement
noun
es·cape·ment
i-ˈskāp-mənt 
1
a
: a device in a timepiece which controls the motion of the train of wheelwork and through which the energy of the power source is delivered to the pendulum or balance by means of impulses that permit a tooth to escape from a pallet at regular intervals
b
: a ratchet device (such as the spacing mechanism of a typewriter) that permits motion in one direction only in equal steps
Examples of escapement in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The Millennium is a watch developed by George in celebration of this momentous occasion, using the Omega movements to employ his escapement.
—
Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 26 Dec. 2024
Though showing off the works of a watch isn’t a new thing—Breguet famously built pocket watches that exposed the gear train and escapement—the practice really took off during the mechanical watch revival of the 1980s and ’90s.
—Blake Buettner, Robb Report, 22 Nov. 2024
Among the movements horological enhancements are two escapement wheels that provide a direct impulse to the balance for improved efficiency, stability and a longer power reserve.
—Carol Besler, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2024
Key components, including the escapement wheel and anchor, are coated in DiamonSil, a combination of silicon and synthetic diamond that improves durability and precision.
—Matthew Catellier, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for escapement 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 26 Dec. 2024
Though showing off the works of a watch isn’t a new thing—Breguet famously built pocket watches that exposed the gear train and escapement—the practice really took off during the mechanical watch revival of the 1980s and ’90s.
—Blake Buettner, Robb Report, 22 Nov. 2024
Among the movements horological enhancements are two escapement wheels that provide a direct impulse to the balance for improved efficiency, stability and a longer power reserve.
—Carol Besler, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2024
Key components, including the escapement wheel and anchor, are coated in DiamonSil, a combination of silicon and synthetic diamond that improves durability and precision.
—Matthew Catellier, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for escapement
Dictionary Entries Near escapement
Cite this Entry
“Escapement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escapement. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share