Pronunciation: [kˈam] (IPA) 
The word "cam" is spelled with three letters - c, a, m. The pronunciation of the word is /kæm/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The letter c is pronounced as /k/, the letter a as /æ/, and the letter m as /m/. This word is often used to describe a rotating or sliding part of a machine that moves another part in a particular way. It is also used in various fields, such as engineering, mechanics, and music.
A cam is a mechanical component commonly found in machinery and engines that is designed to effectively convert rotational motion into linear or reciprocating motion. It consists of a specially shaped or profiled surface, usually a rounded or irregularly contoured disc, which rotates about an axis. Cams have various applications including controlling valves in engines, operating machines or tools, controlling the timing of movements, and converting rotary motion to linear motion or vice versa.
The profile or shape of the cam determines the specific motion that it imparts to a connected follower or lever. As the cam rotates, it pushes against the follower, producing a desired motion. This motion can be simple and uniform, generating a straight line motion, or it can be complex and irregular, producing an oscillating or intermittent motion. Cams are often used in conjunction with other components, such as gears, to further control and fine-tune the resulting motion.
Cams can be categorized into several types, including radial cams, cylinder or barrel cams, and plate or disk cams. Each type has its own unique design and utilization, allowing for a wide range of applications in both mechanical and engineering fields.
Overall, a cam is a versatile and valuable component that plays a crucial role in converting rotational motion to desired linear or reciprocating motion.
• Crooked.
• In mech., a projecting part of a wheel or other moving piece, intended to produce an alternate or variable motion.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "cam" has its origins in the Middle English word "camme", which is derived from the Old Norse word "kambr" or "kambur". These Norse words themselves have their roots in the Proto-Germanic word "kambaz", meaning "comb" or "toothed tool". The term "cam" is commonly used to refer to a rotating or sliding mechanical device with a shaped edge or surface, resembling the teeth of a comb.
