A worm gear is a mechanical arrangement consisting of a worm (which resembles a screw) meshing with a gear (worm wheel). This setup allows for high torque transmission and significant speed reduction in a compact space. In cybersecurity contexts, 'worm gear' is not a direct term, but understanding its mechanical properties can help in physical security, such as securing server racks or devices. The unique design of worm gears also means they are often non-reversible, adding an extra layer of security against tampering in physical locking mechanisms.