action mechanism

/ˌækʃən ˌmɛkəˈnɪzəm/

Other forms: action mechanisms

Definitions of action mechanism

1. noun

   the operating part that transmits power to a mechanism
   synonyms: action

   types:

   firing mechanism, gunlock

   the action that ignites the charge in a firearm

   movement

   the driving and regulating parts of a mechanism (as of a watch or clock)

   piano action

   action consisting of a system of levers that move a felt hammer to strike the strings when a key is depressed

   pump action, slide action

   action mechanism in a modern rifle or shotgun; a back and forward motion of a sliding lever ejects the empty shell case and cocks the firearm and loads a new round

   flintlock

   an obsolete gunlock that has flint embedded in the hammer; the flint makes a spark that ignites the charge

   wheel lock

   an obsolete gunlock using flint and a revolving wheel

   type of:

   mechanism

   device consisting of a piece of machinery; has moving parts that perform some function