scapement

Noun

escapement (plural escapements)

1. (clocks) The linkage in a (watch) that gives impulses to the timekeeping element and periodically releases the gear train to move forward, advancing the clock's hands.
   • The escapement is the reason why clocks tick.
2. A mechanism found in devices such as a typewriter or printer which controls lateral motion of the carriage.
3. An escape or a means of escape.
4. The number of fish that escape commercial fishing operations and travel upstream to spawn.
   • Importantly, there are also extensive practical difficulties associated with gathering and interpreting accurate escapement and run-size information and applying it to population management.1999, E. Eric Knudsen, Donald McDonald, Sustainable Fisheries Management: Pacific Salmon, →ISBN, page 237