torque

Etymology 1

Borrowed from Latin torqueō (“to twist”).

noun

1. (physics, mechanics) A rotational or twisting effect of a force; a moment of force, defined for measurement purposes as an equivalent straight line force multiplied by the distance from the axis of rotation (SI unit newton metre or Nm; imperial unit pound-foot or lb·ft, not to be confused with the foot pound-force, commonly "foot-pound", a unit of work or energy)
   The relative strengths of the various torques will depend on both the spacecraft environment and the form and structure of the spacecraft itself. 1978, James Richard Wertz, Spacecraft Attitude Determination and Control, Springer, page 17

verb

1. (physics, mechanics) To make something rotate about an axis by imparting torque to it.

Etymology 2

From French torque, from Old French, from Latin torquis.

noun

1. A tightly braided necklace or collar, often made of metal, worn by various early European peoples.