Definition of Tachometer: A tachometer is an instrument used to measure the rotational speed of an object, typically an engine shaft or disk, in revolutions per minute (RPM). It’s commonly found in vehicles, where it serves as an essential component for monitoring the engine’s performance. Tachometers help in ensuring that engines do not operate at excessively high RPMs, which can lead to damage or inefficient performance.
Etymology and Origin: The word ‘tachometer’ is derived from the Greek words ‘tachos’, meaning ‘speed’, and ‘metron‘, meaning ‘measure’. The term was first used in the early 19th century, coinciding with the rise of increasingly complex machinery requiring precise measurements of rotational speed for optimal performance and safety.
