cyl·in·der
(silən-dər)
(silən-dər)n.
1. Mathematics
a. The surface generated by a straight line intersecting and moving along a closed plane curve, the directrix, while remaining parallel to a fixed straight line that is not on or parallel to the plane of the directrix.
b. The portion of such a surface bounded by two parallel planes and the regions of the planes bounded by the surface.
c. A solid bounded by two parallel planes and such a surface, especially such a surface having a circle as its directrix.
2. A cylindrical container or object.
3. Engineering
a. The chamber in which a piston of a reciprocating engine moves.
b. The chamber of a pump from which fluid is expelled by a piston.
4. The rotating chamber of a revolver that holds the cartridges.
5. Any of several rotating parts in a printing press, especially one that carries the paper.
6. Archaeology A cylindrical stone or clay object with an engraved design or inscription.
[Latincylindrus, fromGreekkulindros, fromkulindein, to roll.]
cylinderTo calculate the volume of a right circular cylinder, multiply the area of the base by the altitude.