ˈdead-point, dead point Mech.
[dead a. IV.]
That position of a crank at which it is in a direct line with the connecting-rod, and at which therefore the force exerted tends to thrust or pull instead of turning the crank.
| 1830 Kater & Lardn. Mech. xviii. 254 The cranks are so placed that when either is at its dead point, the other is in its most favourable position. 1875 R. F. Martin tr. Havrez' Winding Mach. 72 One piston is on the dead point, and, therefore, the other one alone must turn the engine round. |