adj.
Pronunciation: h ī - ' dro ̇ -lik
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin hydraulicus, from Greek hydraulikos, from hydraulis hydraulic organ, from hydr- + aulos reed instrument ― more at ALVEOLUS
Date: 1661
1 : operated, moved, or effected by means of water
2 a : of or relating to hydraulics < hydraulic engineer> b : of or relating to water or other liquid in motion < hydraulic erosion>
3 : operated by the resistance offered or the pressure transmitted when a quantity of liquid (as water or oil) is forced through a comparatively small orifice or through a tube < hydraulic brakes>
4 : hardening or setting under water < hydraulic cement>
– hy · drau · li · cal · ly \ -li-k( ə -)l ē \ adverb