Gyroscope
WordNet
noun
(1) Rotating mechanism in the form of a universally mounted spinning wheel that offers resistance to turns in any direction
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From coined in 1856 by physicist Michel Foucault, from and .
Noun
- an apparatus composed of a wheel which spins inside of a frame (gimbal) and causes the balancing of the frame in any direction or position. In the form of a gyroscopic stabilizer, used to help keep aircraft and ships steady.