a machine in a clock or watch that transfers movement from the spring or weight to a wheel or pendulum that is connected to the hands 擒纵装置:钟表中的机械装置,将运动从弹簧或重物转移到与指针相连的轮子或摆锤上 Word Originlate 18th cent.: from French échappement, from échapper ‘to escape’.