[free.wheel] n (1930) 1: a clutch fitted in the rear hub of a bicycle that permits the rear wheel to run on free from the rear sprocket when the pedals are stopped
2: a power-transmission system in a motor vehicle with a device that permits the propeller shaft to run freely when its speed is greater than that of the engine shaft
[2]freewheel vi (1903) 1: to roll along freely independent of a gear
2: to move, live, or play freely or irresponsibly -- free.wheel.er n