Direct-acting \Di*rect"-act`ing\, a. (Mach.) Acting directly, as one part upon another, without the intervention of other working parts. [1913 Webster] {Direct-acting steam engine}, one in which motion is transmitted to the crank without the intervention of a beam or lever; -- also called {direct-action steam engine}. {Direct-acting steam pump}, one in which the steam piston rod is directly connected with the pump rod; -- also called {direct-action steam pump}. [1913 Webster]