training wheel meaning: definition, etymology

training wheel

noun

UK /ˈtɹeɪnɪŋ wiːl/ · US /ˈtreɪnɪŋ ˌ(h)wil/

Etymology From training (“relating to the moving of a firearm laterally so that it points in a different direction; relating to imparting and acquiring skills”) + wheel.

Government, Military, Politics, War Historical A wheel forming part of the machinery of a cannon or a similar firearm which is turned to train or aim the weapon at a target.

Rail transport, Railways, Transport Archaic Synonym of trailing wheel (“on a steam locomotive, an unpowered wheel or axle located behind the driving wheels”).

Cycling, Hobbies, Lifestyle, Sports Canada, US, In plural One of a pair of small wheels, each attached to one side of a bicycle's rear wheel to provide support for new riders.

Derived terms: training wheels