Bellmouth

/ˈbɛlmaʊθ/ noun

Definition

A bell-shaped opening or intake, especially the flared entrance to a pipe, duct, or spillway that reduces turbulence.

Etymology

Compound of 'bell' and 'mouth', referring to the shape of the opening which resembles a bell's wide mouth. This engineering term is applied to hydraulic and mechanical systems.

Kelly Says

Bellmouth inlets are brilliant engineering—by gradually widening like a bell, they reduce water turbulence and air resistance, showing how nature-inspired design can make pumps and turbines work more efficiently than sharp openings.

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