First Known Use: 1661
Dictionary
hydraulic
adjective hy·drau·lic \hī-ˈdrȯ-lik\
: operated by the pressure of a fluid
: occurring or used in a hydraulic system
Full Definition of HYDRAULIC
1
: operated, moved, or effected by means of water
2
a : of or relating to hydraulics <hydraulic engineer> b : of or relating to water or other liquid in motion <hydraulic erosion>
3
: operated by the resistance offered or the pressure transmitted when a quantity of liquid (as water or oil) is forced through a comparatively small orifice or through a tube <hydraulic brakes>
4
: hardening or setting under water <hydraulic cement>
— hy·drau·li·cal·ly \-li-k(ə-)lē\ adverb
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Origin of HYDRAULIC
Latin hydraulicus, from Greek hydraulikos, from hydraulis hydraulic organ, from hydr- + aulos reed instrument — more at alveolus
HYDRAULICALLY Defined for Kids
hydraulic
adjective hy·drau·lic \hī-ˈdrȯ-lik\
Definition of HYDRAULIC for Kids
1
: operated, moved, or brought about by means of water <hydraulic pressure>
2
: operated by liquid forced through a small hole or through a tube <hydraulic brakes>
— hy·drau·li·cal·ly \-li-kə-lē\ adverb
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