armature

views updated Jun 27 2018

ar·ma·ture / ˈärməchər; -ˌchoŏr/ • n. 1. the rotating coil or coils of a dynamo or electric motor. ∎  any moving part of an electrical machine in which a voltage is induced by a magnetic field. ∎  a piece of iron or other object acting as a keeper for a magnet.2. a metal framework on which a sculpture is molded with clay or similar material.3. Biol. the protective covering of an animal or plant. ∎ archaic armor.

armature

views updated May 21 2018

armature. Iron bars used in tracery, to support canopies, bosses, etc., or to otherwise strengthen parts of a building. Iron was not infrequently used in medieval buildings.

armature

views updated May 17 2018

armature †arms, armour XV; piece of iron placed in contact with the poles of a magnet to preserve its power XVIII; wire-wound core of dynamo, etc. XIX. — F. — L. armātūra, f. pp. stem of armāre; see ARM2, -URE.