James Watt

Definition

A Scottish inventor and mechanical engineer who greatly improved the steam engine in the late 18th century, making it more efficient and cost-effective. His innovations played a key role in the Industrial Revolution.

Related terms

Industrial Revolution: The period from about 1760 to 1840 when major changes in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, transportation had a profound effect on socioeconomic conditions.

Steam Engine: An engine that uses the expansion or rapid condensation of steam to generate power.

Thomas Newcomen: An English inventor who created the first practical steam engine for pumping water, which was later improved upon by James Watt.