Fer·ris wheel /ˈfɛrəs-/



 Fer·ris wheel An amusement device consisting of a giant power-driven vertically oriented steel wheel, revolvable on its horizontal stationary axle, and carrying a number of balanced passenger cars or open seats around its rim; the seats are suspended so as to remain horizontal as the wheel rotates, and, depending on the size of the wheel, the passengers when they reach the top may have a grand vista of the surrounding area; -- so called after G. W. G. Ferris, American engineer, who erected the first of its kind for the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893.
 Note: Ferris wheels are often found at traveling fairs and at permanent amusement parks.  The Reisenrad in Vienna is one of the world's largest and most famous Ferris wheels.

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 Ferris wheel
      n : rotating mechanism consisting of a large upright wheel with
          suspended seats that remain upright as the wheel turns;
          provides a ride at an amusement park