cog
Plural
cogs
1
a wheel with a set of square or triangular teeth sticking out around the edge that fits into the edge of a similar wheel, causing both wheels to turn
- The cog in the gear system meshed perfectly with its neighboring cogs, ensuring smooth and efficient power transmission.
- Engineers designed the cog to have precisely angled teeth to minimize friction and wear within the machinery.
- During maintenance, technicians replaced the worn cogs in the conveyor system to prevent any disruptions in production.
- The cogwheel assembly was carefully lubricated to reduce friction and enhance the lifespan of the cogs.
- A computer simulation helped engineers optimize the design of the cog to maximize its strength and durability under different loads.
Synonyms:
2
a minor participant who performs an important but routine function in a larger system
- He felt like just another cog in the corporate machine.
- The team is made up of skilled cogs, each handling their own tasks.
- Without every cog functioning properly, the organization would fail.
- She realized her role was that of a cog in the project hierarchy.
- Politicians are often criticized as mere cogs in the bureaucracy.