horse
power
Plural
horsepower
1
a unit for measuring an engine's power
- Horsepower is a unit of power used to measure the rate at which work is done.
- The term "horsepower" originated in the 18th century when James Watt measured the power of steam engines by comparing them to the work done by horses.
- One mechanical horsepower is equivalent to 550 foot-pounds per second, or approximately 745.7 watts.
- Automobile engines are often rated in horsepower to indicate their performance capabilities.
- The horsepower of an engine affects its acceleration and towing capacity, influencing vehicle performance and utility.