Hydraulic

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/haɪˈdrɔː.lɪk/

Definitions

• Operated by the pressure of a fluid.
• Relating to or denoting the branch of science concerned with the practical applications of fluids in motion.

Usage Examples

• The mechanic repaired the hydraulic brake system.
• Hydraulic power is widely used in construction machinery.

Etymology

From Latin *hydraulicus*, from Greek *hydraulikos*, from *hydōr* meaning "water" + *aulos* meaning "pipe".

Synonyms

• Fluid-powered
• Water-driven
• Liquid-operated

Antonyms

• Pneumatic
• Manual
• Electric

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In American English, typically /haɪˈdrɑː.lɪk/; in British English, /haɪˈdrɔː.lɪk/.

Historical Usage

The term has been in use since the early 17th century to describe systems and principles involving the movement of fluids, especially water. With industrialization, it became central to mechanical engineering and construction vocabularies.

Cultural Nuances

Hydraulic systems are crucial across cultures in modern technology, from irrigation systems in agriculture to hydraulic lifts in skyscrapers. The word connotes power, precision, and innovation.

More Information

Hydraulic refers to technology that uses liquid pressure to generate force and motion. Applications range from brakes in vehicles to heavy equipment like bulldozers and aircraft systems. The science of hydraulics is vital in civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering, with a focus on fluid mechanics, force transmission, and control systems. In metaphorical use, "hydraulic" may suggest powerful but invisible force or pressure in contexts like economics or psychology.