[f. WHEEL sb. + WORK sb.] A set of connected wheels forming part of a machine or mechanical contrivance.
1670. Evelyn, Sylva, xxiii. (ed. 2), 115. The Cornel-tree … is exceedingly commended for its durablenesse, and use in Wheel-work, Pinns, and Wedges.
1772. C. Hutton, Bridges, 99. Pile Driver, is an engine for driving down the piles…. It is worked … either with or without wheel work.
1825. J. Nicholson, Operat. Mechanic, 347. These spindles are connected with wheel-work.
1845. G. Dodd, Brit. Manuf., IV. 29. This axle, by the aid of intervening wheel-work, is set into rotation.
b. Applied to the trochal apparatus of a rotifer or wheel-animalcule.
1778. Encycl. Brit. (ed. 2), I. 448/2. The most remarkable part of this animalcule is its wheel-work.
