2Mathematics the longitudinal axis of a helix; an axis of symmetry such that a combination of rotation about it and translation along it constitutes a symmetry operation, but neither does so alone.
Origin
Mid 19th century; earliest use found in The Mechanics' Magazine.
Definition of screw axis in US English:
screw axis
noun
1The longitudinal axis of a screw.
2Mathematics the longitudinal axis of a helix; an axis of symmetry such that a combination of rotation about it and translation along it constitutes a symmetry operation, but neither does so alone.
Origin
Mid 19th century; earliest use found in The Mechanics' Magazine.