The most popular online dictionary and thesaurus for learners of English
capstan
noun [C] /ˈkæp.stən/Definition
› a machine with a spinning vertical cylinder that is used, especially on ships, for pulling heavy objects with a ropeParts of ships and boats › a thin, spinning cylinder in a tape recorder (= a machine that records and plays back sound) that pulls the tape through the machineAudio and video equipment
(Definition of capstan noun from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus
© Cambridge University Press)
Focus on the pronunciation of capstan
Browse related topics
You are looking at an entry to do with Audio & video equipment, but you might be interested in these topics from the Technology topic area:
- Amplifiers, microphones & speakers
- Communications - by telephone
- Communications - general words
- Communications - messaging
- Communications - telephone equipment
- Communications - the postal system
- Computer concepts
- Computer hardware
- Computer programming & software
- Electrical components & circuitry
- Electrical switches & connections
- Electricity & electronics
- Electricity - units
- Engineering - mechanical
- Engineering - mining & quarrying
- Internet terminology
- Internet, email and texting conventions
- Machines - Engines & motors
- Machines - Functioning
- Machines - general words
- Machines - generators & pumps
- Machines - not functioning
- Machines - parts
- Operating computers
- Recording sounds and images
- Sound and image recordings
Browse the Dictionary
Browse the Thesaurus
SMART Thesaurus: Audio & video equipment
Synonyms and related words:
- head noun (DEVICE)
- high fidelity noun
- laserdisc noun
- magnetic head noun
- magnetic tape noun
- midi system noun
- mini system noun
- PDC noun
- personal stereo noun
- pickup noun (SIGNAL)
- record noun (MUSIC)
- recorder noun (DEVICE)
- sound system noun
- tape deck noun
- track noun (MUSIC)
- track verb (MOVE)
- transducer noun
- turntable noun
- VHS noun
- videocassette noun
You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:
Our dictionaries
Word of the Day
Blog
Read our blog about how the English language behaves.
New Words
Find words and meanings that have just started to be used in English, and let us know what you think of them.
