English · Word Candidate

torque

/tɔɹk/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: torques · torquing · torqueing · torqued

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A rotational or twisting effect of a force; a moment of force, defined for measurement purposes as an equivalent straight line force multiplied by the distance from the axis of rotation (SI unit newton-metre or N·m; imperial unit pound-foot or lb·ft, not to be confused with the foot pound-force, commonly "foot-pound", a unit of work or energy)

Noun

Examples

The relative strengths of the various torques will depend on both the spacecraft environment and the form and structure of the spacecraft itself.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To make something rotate about an axis by imparting torque to it.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

A tightly braided necklace or collar, often made of metal, worn by various early European peoples.

Noun

Examples

But there are the lesser sub-kings of Wales, true to the immemorial schisms amongst themselves, which destroyed the realm of Ambrosius, and rendered vain the arm of Arthur. With their torques of gold, and wild eyes, and hair cut round ears and brow, they stare on the scene.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “torque” mean?

Is “torque” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.