Dictionary

big end en · NOUN

Meanings

1. In a piston engine, the larger end (crankshaft end) of the connecting rod that connects a piston to the crankshaft.
   • Oil is carried from the big end to the small end by a centrally drilled oil hole. 1958 April 14, “British Railways First Main-Line Diesel-Hydraulic Locomotive”, in Railway Magazine, page 265:
   • Except in the case of the largest 4-6-2, not yet in contemplation, use of two [outside] cylinders only was decided on for the following reasons:— […] 2. The split inside big end is a source of trouble at high speeds and powers unless exceptional integrity of maintenance can be guaranteed. 1951 July, “British Standard Locomotives”, in Railway Magazine, page 441:
   • From the sound of that motor, I'd say yer big end's gone, mate.

Forms

Antonyms

small end