Found 2 items, similar to paddle wheel.
English → English (WordNet) Definition: paddle wheel paddle wheel n : a large wheel fitted with paddles and driven by an engine in order to propel a boat [syn: paddlewheel]
English → English (gcide) Definition: Paddle wheel Paddle \Pad"dle\, n. [See Paddle, v. i.] 1. An implement with a broad blade, which is used without a fixed fulcrum in propelling and steering canoes and boats. [1913 Webster] 2. The broad part of a paddle, with which the stroke is made; hence, any short, broad blade, resembling that of a paddle, such as that used in table tennis. [1913 Webster] Thou shalt have a paddle upon thy weapon. --Deut. xxiii. 13. [1913 Webster] 3. One of the broad boards, or floats, at the circumference of a water wheel, or paddle wheel. [1913 Webster] 4. A small gate in sluices or lock gates to admit or let off water; -- also called clough. [1913 Webster] 5. (Zo["o]l.) A paddle-shaped foot, as of the sea turtle. [1913 Webster] 6. A paddle-shaped implement for stirring or mixing. [1913 Webster] 7. [In this sense prob. for older spaddle, a dim. of spade.] See Paddle staff (b), below. [Prov. Eng.] [1913 Webster] Paddle beam (Shipbuilding), one of two large timbers supporting the spring beam and paddle box of a steam vessel. Paddle board. See Paddle, n., 3. Paddle shaft, the revolving shaft which carries the paddle wheel of a steam vessel. Paddle staff. (a) A staff tipped with a broad blade, used by mole catchers. [Prov. Eng.] (b) A long-handled spade used to clean a plowshare; -- called also plow staff. [Prov. Eng.] Paddle steamer, a steam vessel propelled by paddle wheels, in distinction from a screw propeller. Paddle wheel, the propelling wheel of a steam vessel, having paddles (or floats) on its circumference, and revolving in a vertical plane parallel to the vessel's length. [1913 Webster]