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Glite Dictionary
distributor cam

distributor cam

8.6
A part inside a car distributor that turns to send a spark to each spark plug in order
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : eje distribuidor
  • A faulty distributor cam can lead to misfiring and irregular engine operation.

Examples

  • The mechanic replaced the worn distributor cam to improve the engine's performance.

  • He examined the distributor cam to check for any signs of wear or damage.

  • The distributor cam is essential for engine timing.

  • Many mechanics replace the distributor cam during maintenance.

  • A faulty distributor cam can lead to misfiring and irregular engine operation.

  • The mechanic replaced the worn distributor cam to improve the engine's performance.

  • He examined the distributor cam to check for any signs of wear or damage.

Surface Forms

distributor cam singular
distributor cams plural

Morphology

distributor + cam

The meaning is directly compositional: a 'distributor cam' is simply the cam that is part of a distributor. A B1 learner who knows 'distributor' (an automotive ignition component) and 'cam' (a rotating shaped element) can infer this technical referent, since noun+noun compounds of this form are regular and cross-linguistically common.

Etymology

Distributor cam is a small cam inside the distributor that turns and presses metal points so a spark goes to each 'spark plug' one after another. So, the name shows this part's job: it makes the engine fire in the right 'order'.