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Glite Dictionary
handpiece

handpiece

3 6.6
A small part you hold to control a machine for detailed work like in dentistry
  • noun
  • /ˈhændˌpis/
  • Specialized
translation icon : pieza de mano
  • The handpiece is equipped with a motor, a suction device, and an attached hollow blade.
  • disposable handpiece

Examples

  • Again, the beam can either be tightly focused for high power density or diffused for lower power density simply by moving the handpiece towards or away from the surgical site or focal point.

    Academic text (1995)

  • The basic concept is that the beam leaves the laser system and passes through fiber-optic cables to a handpiece that is held like any standard otologic instrument.

    Academic text (1995)

  • The fiber goes through the handpiece and extends from the metal end for its surgical use.

    Academic text (1995)

  • The beam is delivered by the handpiece held in the right hand and a smoke evacuator in the left hand.

    Academic text (1995)

  • As with any surgical instrument, a fiberoptic argon laser handpiece is only a tool.

    Academic text (1996)

  • RFA requires expensive equipment, including a radiofrequency generator and disposable handpieces.

    Academic text (1999)

  • Because of the fiber-optic capability of the visible wavelength beam, a number of handpieces have been developed that incorporate a fiber-optic cable within them.

    Academic text (1995)

  • Application of current across a transducer in the handpiece causes the blade to vibrate at its harmonic frequency of 55,000 Hz.

    Academic text (2001)

  • A lightweight handpiece and available BOOSTER pack provide the precision two-speed versatility (7,000 or 14,000 RPM).

    Academic text (1995)

  • The dentist carefully adjusted the handpiece to ensure precise drilling during the procedure.

Synonyms

dental handpiece
vshandpiece
  • Specialized
6.2

A small powered tool that holds and spins a round or pointed tip to shape, clean and polish a tooth

is broader in use, applying beyond tooth care to many precise tasks

Compounds

dental handpiece
  • Specialized
6.2

A small powered tool that holds and spins a round or pointed tip to shape, clean and polish a tooth

Surface Forms

handpiece singular
handpieces plural

Morphology

handpiece = hand + piece (transparent) = hand + piece

Meaning is directly compositional: a 'piece' that is held or operated by hand, which aligns with standard compound interpretation.

Etymology

Handpiece is simply made of hand and piece, so it literally means a 'piece' you hold in your 'hand'. That's why a handpiece is the small, handheld part of a machine or tool, like the part dentists and engineers use for detailed work.