Meaning of the word pinion in English

What does pinion mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

pinion

US /ˈpɪn.jən/
UK /ˈpɪn.jən/
"pinion" picture

Noun

1.

a small gear or wheel which engages with a larger one

Example:
The steering system uses a rack and pinion mechanism.
The motor drives a small pinion that turns the larger wheel.
2.

the outer part of a bird's wing including the flight feathers

Example:
The eagle spread its pinions and took flight.
A single pinion feather lay on the ground.

Verb

to tie or hold the arms or legs of someone so that they cannot move

Example:
The guards managed to pinion the intruder's arms behind his back.
He was pinioned to the ground by the fallen debris.