English edit

Etymology edit

slush +‎ box, in reference to the fluid-coupling action of the torque converter. A popular notion portrays this action as "slushing around" that involves greater power losses than with manual transmissions, although the notion is a comic exaggeration.

Pronunciation edit

  • (file)

Noun edit

slushbox (plural slushboxes)

  1. (slang, automotive) Synonym of automatic transmission.
    The slushbox did nothing to improve an already sluggish response.
    Slushboxes are taking over the scrub. Once scorned in the bush, the automatic gearbox today is more widely accepted in traditional four-wheel drive wagons. "Bush bashers go auto." The Sunday Telegraph. 2002 July 21. Pg. A05.

Related terms edit