GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Cam (kăm), n. [Dan. kam comb, ridge; or cf. W., Gael., and Ir., cam bent. See 1st Comb.]
   1. (Med.) (a) A turning or sliding piece which, by the shape of its periphery or face, or a groove in its surface, imparts variable or intermittent motion to, or receives such motion from, a rod, lever, or block brought into sliding or rolling contact with it. (b) A curved wedge, movable about an axis, used for forcing or clamping two pieces together. (c) A projecting part of a wheel or other moving piece so shaped as to give alternate or variable motion to another piece against which it acts.
   
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   ☞ Cams are much used in machinery involving complicated, and irregular movements, as in the sewing machine, pin machine, etc.
   
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   2. A ridge or mound of earth. [Prov. Eng.]  Wright.
   
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   Cam wheel (Mach.), a wheel with one or more projections (cams) or depressions upon its periphery or upon its face; one which is set or shaped eccentrically, so that its revolutions impart a varied, reciprocating, or intermittent motion.
   
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2.       
   Cam (?), a. [See Kam.] Crooked. [Obs.]
   
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